Unwanted ~ Part 39

Khushi

After our failed attempt of spending the night together, though we’d said we’d try again soon, we hadn’t. Life kept getting in the way and we just hadn’t had the opportunity to try again.
Arushi had gotten the flu so I didn’t want to leave her at home, and I really didn’t want to take her with me to Arnav’s the first night we slept together again. Perhaps one would say I was a bad mother for wanting to leave my daughter, just so I could go and sleep with my husband, but I knew if Arushi was in the house the first time we did it again, I wouldn’t be able to give Arnav the full attention he deserved. So we wait.

Three weeks passed and after waiting for so long, we had made plans to finally spend the night together. In this time, I had decided to go back onto birth control and it also gave me time to mentally prepare myself to start engaging in a physical relationship with Arnav again.

It felt so weird when I thought about it. It felt like I was preparing myself for the first time, like this hadn’t happened between us before. But the experience was still exciting and nerve wracking at the same time. I wanted to be perfect. I wanted our first night to be perfect…

 

*****

 

When I got to his house, the first thing I noticed was the beautifully set table.

 

“What’s all this?”

“Some good food for my lady.”

“One could get used to this Arnav, your cooking is becoming a habit for me now.”

“Let it, if you want, I’ll keep cooking for you for the rest of our lives.”

“Arnav…”

“Please, take a seat.”

 

Nodding, I sat down and I waited as Arnav too sat down. Once he was seated, I served us both the food and we began eating, making small talk as we dined.

 

*****

 

After dinner, it was time for dessert. We gave ourselves a little bit of time to recover from the food we had eaten, but we both knew what it was that we really wanted tonight. When we were both ready, he took my hand as he led me to the bedroom before pushing me onto the bed. He came over me, his hand on my waist while his lips found mine.

His hands ran over my body and I wrapped my legs around his waist, bringing him into myself.

Realistically we knew that we should be taking this slowly, giving ourselves time to familiarise ourselves with each other again. But it had been so long, we’d been waiting so long that taking it slow was out of the question. We just wanted to go for it, to come together once again.

As his hands brushed over my naked skin, I felt myself shiver with anticipation. I wanted this, he wanted this… We needed this.

Moving off me, he pulled me up as he proceeded to undress me and I did the same. Hand on my cheek, he closed the distance between us again, his lips on mine, his tongue between my lips, pushing them apart. Locking his hand in mine, he lowered me back into the bed, as he moved over me…

 

*****

 

As I awoke the next morning, I felt super sore. I hadn’t thought that it would hurt quite as much as it did, but it felt like losing my virginity all over again. We should’ve gone slowly, but there was a sense of urgency between the both of us. It had been so long and taking it slow just wasn’t in the question, we just wanted to go for it.

But regardless of that, last night had been amazing. To be with him again, to be one with him again…

When I’d left home I thought I’d have all this back one day, but as time went on, I slowly had lost hope. But now…. Smiling to myself, I pulled the covers tightly around myself as rolled onto my back, staring up at the ceiling. Damn. We were actually together again!

Lost in my own little world, I didn’t even realise when Arnav came back into the room. He came in and sat down beside me. Pulling the covers around myself, I sat up and gave him a peck on the cheek.

 

“Morning.”

“Good morning. Did you sleep well?”

“I had the best nights sleep. I didn’t even realise when you got up.”

 

He gave me a cheeky wink.

 

“I did call you when I woke up but you were so tired out, you didn’t even move.”

“Wow really?”

“Yup, any way, seeing as your up, I’ve made you breakfast.”

 

I hadn’t even realised he’d brought food with him but he had. Reaching over, he picked up the tray he’d brought with him and held it for me as I sat properly.

 

“Pancakes!”

“Just the way you like them, with extra maple syrup!”

 

I ignored him as he smirked.

He remembered. He remembered that I used to love having pancakes made by him the morning after we had sex. I didn’t know why, but I just liked it. I used to find I used to crave pancakes after sex. Though I hadn’t felt it as much today, having the pancakes in front of me made me realise how much I wanted them.

I tucked into my food and he leaned against the headboard and smiled at me.

 

“Would you like some?”

“Nah, I’ve had my breakfast, you enjoy you’re food and then I want to talk to you about something.”

“What do you want to talk about?”

 

He just shook his head and pointed to the food in front of me. What did he want to talk about? I wanted to know now but I knew he’d never tell me until I finished my food.
Eating my pancakes as fast as I could, I kept a close eye on him, trying to work out what was coming. But I didn’t have the faintest of clues. Shrugging to myself, I finished my food as fast as I could and put the plate down.

 

“I’m ready, what did you want to say?”

 

Turning his attention to me, he took my hands in his own and looked into my eyes.

 

“You know I’m not always the best with word so I’m just going to say what’s in my heart. Khushi, will you and Arushi move in with me?”

 

He took me by surprise completely and it must have been noticeable.

 

“Were you not expecting me to say anything like that?”

“I just… I didn’t think… I don’t know.”

“Well, do you want to?”

 

I paused for a moment as I thought about it. Of course I wanted to move in with Arnav! The way we were living our relationship now, it made me feel as though they were a young couple, still only dating, and who had to plan well in advance before they spent time together. I didn’t want this. I wanted us to have a normal relationship like a normal couple. The answer to his question was a simple one.

 

“Of course!”

 

Letting out the breath he had been holding, Arnav threw his arms around me and hugged me tightly.

 

“I was terrified that you wouldn’t say yes.”

“Why wouldn’t I say yes? I was thrown, but I’d never say no.”

 

He pulled me into himself again, his lips on mine, his hands locked in mine as he took me down onto the bed again…

 

*****

 

When I got home after leaving Arnav’s, all I could think about was what was I meant to say to Arushi? And how was I supposed to ease her into the idea of moving in with Arnav. But I knew it needed to be done.

After me and Arnav we’re finally satisfied with each other, we sat down and had a mature conversation about me and Arushi moving into his place. We knew we wanted to move in together, because we were still together. And he made it clear that he wanted her to get used to having him around all the time before just throwing her into the deep end when we eventually went back to Delhi.

As I walked into the house, Arushi was already waiting and launched herself at me before I could even put my bag down.

 

“Mama!”

“Hey baby! Did you miss me?”

“Lots and lots and LOTS!”

 

Lifting Arushi into my arms, I carried her over to the living room before sitting her down on the sofa. I asked her how she spent yesterday evening and then what she did this morning. She told me about all of it before asking me about Arnav.

 

“Well your papa has said he will come to see you soon, but there’s something I wanted to talk to you about before that.”

 

She raised her little eyebrows the way Arnav does and I couldn’t help but smile.

 

“Your papa was saying that maybe it is time that we went and lived with him. But that’s only if you want to.”

 

For a moment, Arushi didn’t respond. I could tell she was processing the information. After what felt like half a lifetime, she finally replied.

 

“Live in his house?”

“Yes.”

“Both of us?”

“Yes of course!”

 

A wide smile played on her lips before she gave me a big hug.

 

“YES YES YES YES YES!”

“So you want to live with your papa?”

“YES YES YES!”

 

Laughing, I picked my baby up into my arms and held her close to myself. Finally, we were going to be a real family!

 

*****

 

A month had passed since Arushi and I moved into Arnav’s place and everything had been going amazingly. I had worried that it would take Arushi a while to settle in, to really get comfortable, but from the very moment she arrived, she was fine. She was just happy to have Arnav around all the time.

When we first moved in, Arushi didn’t sleep through the night. At 2am or 3am, she would come into mine and Arnav’s room to sleep with us, but she got over this quite quickly.

When we moved in, Arnav had already decorated the spare bedroom, all ready for Arushi. He had said he didn’t want his daughter to come home and feel like a stranger in her own house. We had brought all her stuff from Raj and Veera mausi’s house and put it in, and she had been ecstatic to find all her favourite things plus lots of new things.

When I had told Raj and Veera mausi that we were going to move in with Arnav, they had been upset of course, but they understood. They understood that it was finally time for me and Arushi to go home, to finally make up for all the time that we had lost with our family. So with a heavy heart, they accepted that we were leaving and they have us their blessings for our new start.

Being with Arnav all the time again, it felt strange originally. I felt like it was the first time that me and Arnav were living together. But that initial awkward stage didn’t last long. We were soon able to find our flow again, and everything was going great.

Initially, we had been worried to have sex because we didn’t want Arushi to hear us or to walk in on us, but after about a week, Arushi got accustomed to her new surroundings and she started sleeping peacefully through the nights again. And with her sleeping through the nights, it meant we were able to work on ourselves too.

Everything was going great.

 

*****

 

When Arnav returned home one evening, it was clear to me that he was tense. I asked him what the matter was, but he wouldn’t tell me, he just said that he wanted to wait until Arushi was asleep so that we could talk.

So I put Arushi to bed a little earlier than usual and then came and sat down with Arnav.

 

“What’s the matter, I haven’t seen you this tense in so long, is everything okay?”

 

He was tense and he was confused, that was obvious to me. But what the matter was, only he could tell me. I watched as he took a moment before turning to me.

 

“I need to go back to Delhi. I’d been putting off my return for months, but I can’t do it any more, I need to go back.”

“I understand. Of course! Everything is in Delhi. You’re home, your business, it’s understandable. Why are you so tense?”

“Because I don’t want to leave you and Arushi. And you said only the other day that you weren’t sure if it was time for us to go back.”

 

It made sense, of course. He had asked if we wanted to go back home soon and I had said that I wanted some more time. I had used Arushi as an excuse, but the truth was that I wasn’t sure if I was ready to go back yet. I didn’t know if I was ready to face my family and if I could deal with his. It had been so long and I… I just didn’t know if I could do it yet. But I could see Arnav’s tension and I knew I couldn’t be selfish any more, I needed to do right by him, instead of making things harder for him.

 

“Let’s do it, lets go back to Delhi. All three of us.”

“Are you sure? Arushi?”

“I think Arushi will be fine now. She has us. She’s comfortable with you and she’s good with new people any way. It may take her a while to fully get used to the change, but I think she will be okay.”

“But what if she isn’t.”

“It may take her time but it will be fine. And if she really struggles, then maybe we can just stay in our own little flat until she is accustomed to everyone at home.”

“That sounds like a good idea.”

 

We talked through the plan, of how we could make things work, and after over an hour of discussion, we finally knew what we were going to do and how we were going to do it. It was finally going to happen, we were finally going home….

 

*****

 

Author’s note:

Just a short note to say, I hope this update is okay. This is the first chapter I’ve written for this story in over a year and so I was feeling it’s a bit shaky. Please do leave your comments and I will see you all again soon! 

Jalebi ~ Part 37

Taking in Rohan’s words, Arnav didn’t know if he should feel happy or if he should feel sad. It was obvious Rohan cared about Khushi. But Arnav knew that he definitely cared about Khushi more than anyone else ever could.

 

“I’ll take my leave.”

“No. No you have to stay.”

 

Unable to understand why Rohan would make him stay, Arnav tried to argue with Rohan. But he wasn’t having it. He wanted him to stay.

 

“I can’t.”

“You have to.”

 

The way Rohan spoke, Arnav realised that there would be no use arguing. He had to sit through the wedding, he would have to watch the woman he loved become someone else’s.

 

*****

 

Returning to the main hall, one of Rohan’s cousins approached him and told him that the auspicious time had arrived and that he needed to make his way over to the mandap.

Taking his seat at the mandap, he waited for Khushi to come over.

Offering Khushi her hand, Payal gave Khushi a little smile.

 

“Let’s get this show on the road.”

“Jiji I…”

 

Starting to panic slightly, Khushi realised the greater implications of what was happening. She was about to marry Rohan. Actually marry him. She would have to live with him, share a room, a bed with him…

 

“Jiji I cant!”

“What?”

“I can’t marry Rohan.”

 

Payal and Khushi were using hushed voices, but they caught the attention of all those around them. Rohan looked over, and he saw Khushi still at her seat.

 

“Now is not the time to get cold feet Khushi. You’ve had so much time to change your decision, you can’t do it now.”

“I know… But honestly Jiji I can’t.”

 

Feeling at a complete loss, Payal moved back slightly, trying to think of what to do.
Wanting to know what the delay was for, Rohan got to his feet and made his way over to Khushi. Putting his hand out to her, he waited for her to take it.

 

“Rohan…”

“Come on, everyone’s waiting.”

“I…”

“You’ve watched Kuch Kuch Hota Hai right? If you don’t come on, I’m going to drag you to the mandap.”

“I can’t…”

 

Realising exactly what Khushi was thinking, Rohan took Khushi’s hand and dragged her over to the mandap.

 

“Rohan…”

 

Those who hadn’t been paying attention before were paying attention now. Anjali saw what was going on and nudged Arnav.

 

“What’s happening?”

“Did he ask me to stay so I that he could make me watch him forcefully marry her?”

 

Khushi tried to get her hand out of Rohan’s, and struggled even more when she saw the mandap getting closer to them.

 

“Rohan please…”

 

She saw the mandap approach and she realised… This was it. She had made her decision and now there was no backing out.

But much to Khushi’s surprise, they walked straight passed the mandap and only stopped once they were a little further down. Arnav looked up again, trying to make sense of what was happening.

 

“What are you…”

“Today Khushi, I realised what love is. True love is when you are ready to sacrifice your happiness and what you want so the other person can be happy. I learnt that from a man who up until now I didn’t like at all. He made me realise that if you truly love someone, you should let them go if that’s what is going to make them happy. Arnav… Arnav taught me that.”

 

Turning her attention to Arnav, Khushi gave a little smile.

 

“Arnav is ready to let you go because he loves you truly and he thinks you marrying me is what you want and he just wants you to be happy. But I think we both know you’re only marrying me because you think that if you said no now, you’d be betraying me.”

 

Tears fell from Khushi’s eyes because Rohan was right. He was spot on.

 

“I’m sorry…”

“No I’m sorry. I should have realised and I shouldn’t have been so pig headed when making you choose. I knew the truth and I decided to overlook it for my own selfish reasons.”

 

Khushi felt her head spin as she took in Rohan’s words. What was the meaning of all this? Feeling slightly light headed, Khushi raised her hand to her head and tried to keep herself stable. She felt herself sway slightly and then the next thing she knew, she had a strong pair of arms around her.

Turning to her right, she saw Arnav stood beside her, holding her tightly.

 

“See, he was stood all the way on the other side of the room and he knew you needed him. I was stood right here and I didn’t realise. This is why you should make him your life partner. Put the guy out of his misery.”

“Rohan…”

 

Taking Khushi’s hand in his own, Rohan carefully pulled the engagement ring that he’d put on her off.

 

“I set you free.”

“I don’t know what to…”

“You don’t need to say anything to me Khushi. Turn to the saint of a man next to you, and ask him for his hand.”

 

Giving a little smile and mouthing her thanks, Khushi turned to Arnav and took his hand into her own. Looking at her, Arnav smiled before brushing away the tears on Khushi’s cheek.

 

“I screwed up Arnav. I thought I was doing the right thing but I… Will you marry me Arnav? After everything that I have put you through, do you think you can forgive me and marry me? I think we both know that I am yours. Only yours.”

 

Reaching into his pocket, Arnav pulled out the velvet box that Anjali had given to him a little while ago. Opening it and carefully taking out the ring, Arnav gently put it on Khushi.

 

“You have no idea how long I’ve been waiting to put this ring on your finger.”

 

Taking her hand, he pressed a light kiss on her hand.

Smiling, Rohan mentally pat himself on the back. He did the right thing. As much as it hurt and as much as he wanted to marry Khushi himself, he knew he did the right thing. She was never his and she never would have been.

 

“Now now, let’s not get too caught up in the moment, there are still tonnes of people watching you.”

 

Taking her hand out of Arnav’s, Khushi wrapped her arms around Rohan and gave him a big hug.

 

“Thank you so much.”

“We’ve been friends for the longest time, if I didn’t have your back, who else would?”

 

Taking his turban off, Rohan walked to Arnav and placed it on his head.

 

“Be good to her bro.”

“I promise you, I’ll never let her or you regret this decision.”

 

*****

 

After giving the bride and groom a few moments to freshen up and to allow their families to take in everything, Arnav and Khushi’s marriage ceremony was well on the way.

The Raizada’s and the Gupta’s had been overjoyed by the change in events. Anjali had called Hari Prakash and asked him to quickly go out and get the supplies that she needed.

 

*****

 

Wedding done, bidaai done, Payal helped Khushi into the back of Arnav’s car as Akash got into the drivers seat.

Pulling Khushi into his arms, Arnav brushed her hair out of her face as he took her lips between his own and kissed her as though he’d never kissed her before. Taking hold of his collar, Khushi pulled him closer to herself as she kissed him back with the same level of intensity. His hands dropped to her waist as he pulled her onto himself, needing to get closer.

Breaking apart to come up for air, Khushi ran her hand along Arnav’s face and placed a little kiss on the end of his nose.

 

“I never thought… I thought we… I thought I lost you…”

“Sh, we’re together now, we’re married. That’s all that matters now.”

“I love you Arnav. I’m so sorry I…”

“Shh. I told you, it doesn’t matter any more. This is a new start.”

 

Cuddling up to Arnav, Khushi tucked herself into him and closed her eyes, feeling peaceful.

 

“Hey Khushi, remember the time we made out here. How about…”

“Don’t even think about it bhai!”

 

Laughing, Arnav reached over and poked Akash in the back of his head. Snuggling back down, Khushi tucked herself into Arnav and simply inhaled his scent.

Finally peace had been restored.

 

*****

 

After being welcomed into the Raizada house as the new Raizada bride, Arnav and Khushi were sat on the sofa with the family, waiting to be granted permission to go to their room.

 

“Whatever happens, happens for the best. And all that matters now is that Khushi bitya is home.”

“I told you Nani, I’d sort it and I would get her back.

 

Before anyone could say anything more, Anjali re-emerged from wherever she was and came to collect Khushi.

 

“Come on Khushi, I’ll show you to your room.”

“There’s no need Di, I can show Khushi to our room.”

“Hush chote. It’s a rasam. I showed Payal to her room after the wedding and I’m going to do the same with Khushi.”

 

Helping Khushi to her feet, Anjali turned away, leading her up to Arnav’s room. Arnav too got to his feet but was stopped.

 

“No Chote, wait. I will tell you when you can go up.”

 

Rolling his eyes, Arnav sat back down and was met with a whole lot of teasing from Shyam and Akash for being too eager.

Helping Khushi up the stairs, Anjali turned her attention back to her.

 

“How are you feeling?”

“So nervous and overwhelmed.”

“Are you happy though?”

“Of course.”

 

Teaching Arnav’s bedroom, Khushi gasped as she looked around the room.

 

“Di when did you…”

“Just because you and Chote got married at the last minute, doesn’t mean that I wouldn’t have made sure that everything was perfect.”

 

Looking around the room, Khushi took in the beautifully decorated room with flower petals and candles.

 

“But so quickly…”

“I got Akash to take a detour. Don’t think you and Chote realised that though did you?”

 

Blushing, Khushi looked down. No, she hadn’t realised. She hadn’t gone to sleep in the car, but she had drifted off slightly. It had been so long since she had last felt so content and at ease, that it was so easy to just zone out.

Leading Khushi over to the bed, Anjali was ready to help her onto the bed when Khushi stopped her.

 

“Di, I’ve been in this outfit for so long. I know it’s not the norm, but can I please get changed before he comes up?”

“Of course it’s fine. I completely understand. Would you like me to call Payal to help you get changed”

“No no, I’ll manage.”

“Okay, you get changed. I’ll send Chote up in half an hour. And I won’t come up with him so I won’t see you.”

 

Anjali gave Khushi a suggestive nudge with a cheeky wink, causing Khushi to want to curl into herself because she felt so shy.

 

Anjali left, leaving Khushi alone in Arnav’s bedroom. Well hers and Arnav’s bedroom. Khushi hadn’t had the intention to dress to impress Arnav, but now that Anjali had hinted at it, Khushi decided that she wanted to wear something special for him.

Picking up her suitcase, Khushi placed it onto the bed and went rummaging. She hadn’t brought many pieces of sexy nightwear because she hadn’t seen the need for it. But things were different now. She was married to Arnav.

Picking out what she wanted to wear, Khushi took hold of it and made her way to the bathroom to get changed.

 

*****

 

Sat back on the bed, Khushi had draped her dupatta back onto her head and had pulled it around her shoulders. She knotted her hands together as she waited for her husband to arrive.

A little while passed and then the door was pushed open and Arnav walked in. Quickly turning around, he locked the door behind him. With the door locked, he pulled the curtains on the doors to the poolside and then finally, slowly made his way over to his bride who was waiting on the bed.

Sitting down beside her, Arnav places his hand on hers.

 

“Hi.”

“Hey.”

 

Keeping his hand on hers, Arnav leaned in and placed a kiss on Khushi’s cheek before pulling away again. Slowly, he raised his hand to her dupatta and pulled it off her head carefully, letting it fall around her shoulders.

As soon as her dupatta was off, his eyes fell on the red sindoor that he had placed on her, marking her as his. He also saw that she’d taken off all her jewellery except her mangalsootra and her ring.

Clutching at the dupatta, Khushi tried to pull it around herself, suddenly feeling self conscious about her attire underneath.

 

“I can’t believe I have you in my bedroom, on my bed, as my wife. When I woke up this morning, all I could think about was how this evening you’d be married to someone else, but now…”

“I’m yours. I’ve always been yours.”

 

Biting her lip, Khushi blushed as she reached out to him. Shuffling closer to her, Arnav took hold of her dupatta and slowly pulled it away from her, revealing what she was wearing underneath. Or more correctly, what she wasn’t wearing underneath.

 

“Khushi…”

“I thought you would appreciate it if you didn’t have to take so many layers of clothes off of me.”

“You know me too well baby.”

 

Completely pulling the dupatta away and dropping it down the side of the bed, Arnav took Khushi in. Here she sat, on his bed, in nothing more than a deep red bra and panties. Taking her in, Arnav gulped.

 

“Shit.”

 

Feeling super self conscious, Khushi looked around her, trying to find something to cover herself with. But before she could reach out, Arnav had moved into her, pushed her against the pillows and his lips were on hers, his hands on her exposed waist.

Moving over her, he quickly unbuttoned his shirt and attempted to push it off. Wrapping her arms around his neck, Khushi pulled Arnav into herself, hooking her leg onto his, letting herself feel his body move on hers.

Keeping one arm around his neck, Khushi’s other hand found its way into Arnav’s hair, massaging his scalp with her fingers as they carried on kissing.

Pulling apart for air, Arnav pushed his shirt off, and then moved over Khushi once more.

 

“Arnav…”

 

Whatever she wanted to say was forgotten about as he started kissing her neck, all the while touching her breasts. His hands moved over the silk and lace and he could feel her pebbled nipples on his palms.

Arnav pulled back, and looked at Khushi who’s eyes were half closed.

 

“Khushi…”

“Hmm?”

 

Slowly opening her eyes, she was met with Arnav’s dark molten orbs staring into her soul.

 

“Are you ready for tonight?”

 

Wrapping her arms back around him, Khushi pulled Arnav to herself and whispered into his ear.

 

“Yes.”

Jalebi ~ Part 36

 

The long awaited day had finally arrived. It was finally Khushi and Rohan’s wedding day.

At the wedding venue, there was a great amount of hustle and bustle as everyone made sure that everything was in place and that all arrangements had been done properly. Khushi’s father, alongside Payal’s father, rushed around, making sure that the catering service had prepared all the food properly, while Khushi’s mother and Payal made sure that all of Khushi’s things were properly packed.

 

“Ma, Payal, you guys need to stop worrying. Even if I don’t have all my stuff it isn’t a big deal, in a weeks time me and him are moving back into my house.”

 

As Rohan and his family were primarily based in London, they didn’t have their own home in Delhi any more. As a result, it meant that Khushi didn’t actually have a sasural here where she would have to live.

For the purpose of rituals and traditions, Rohan’s uncle had said that they could welcome the new bride into their home and that Khushi and Rohan could stay there until they went for their honeymoon. Then, when they came back, they would move back into Khushi’s apartment.

Some girls dreamed to have a sasural, others not so much. Khushi found herself on this side of the spectrum, she was glad that she wouldn’t always have to live with in-laws. When Khushi thought that she may be marrying Arnav, she had been overjoyed at the idea of living with her in laws, of living with Payal. But now… Considering all the changes, she was glad for not having immediate in laws in India. It would mean that there would be less pressure on her. And she would have to feign happiness less.

 

“We know you’re going to be moving back into your own home, but you still need to make sure you have your things so you can stay there without any issues.”

 

Giving a noncommittal grunt Khushi turned away and Lalita threw her hands into her hair and turned to Payal. Khushi was driving her insane! She wasn’t making decisions about anything, she wasn’t getting a move on, she wasn’t doing anything! It was her wedding day, yet she was completely stoic about everything.

Nodding to her aunt, Payal signalled that she would handle it. Waiting until her masi left the room, Payal went over to shut the door and then came and sat beside Khushi.

 

“Khushi, what’s the matter.”

“Nothings the matter jiji.”

“Khushi…”

 

Letting out a sigh, Khushi turned to her cousin, letting her shoulders drop.

 

“It’s just all of this. I’m expected to constantly be smiling and to be that blushing bride, but I can’t. I don’t feel like smiling and as far as feeling shy goes, all these suggestive comments that everyone is making, I know they mean nothing, because I know I’m not going to be getting down with my husband tonight so…”

“I’ve said it to you over and over again Khushi, if this isn’t what you really want, there’s still time to walk away.”

 

Khushi knew that there was still time to walk away, but she also knew it was too late. The guests has started arriving, her groom was ready, she was ready. She couldn’t get cold feet and back out now.”

 

“How is he? Arnav I mean? Especially after the fashion show?”

“He’s been… Disturbed. He doesn’t really interact with anyone, Akash said he’s been keeping himself busy with work. But I saw the way his face fell when he realised that all of us were coming to your wedding today.”

“Did he say anything?”

“He didn’t say anything to me and Akash obviously because he knows we need to be here. But he did ask Di why she felt the need to come. She explained that your parents invited everyone on account if them being my in laws and that they had to go otherwise it would seem rude. I don’t think he was too impressed with that.”

 

Sighing, Khushi turned her attention back to the mirror and looked at herself. She knew she looked beautiful, but she didn’t look like the bride she wanted to be. And that was down to the fact that her groom wasn’t the man she wanted.

Placing her hand on Khushi’s shoulder, Payal looked at Khushi through the mirror, trying to tell her it would all be okay.

A little while later, there was a little knock at the door and Payal told whoever it was to come in. Anjali walked in tentatively.

 

“Di?”

 

Turning, Khushi looked up at Anjali, her eyes wide.

 

“Di, aap?”

 

Shutting the door, Anjali came and sat down on the stool by Khushi’s side.

 

“Hi Khushi, I’m okay, you?”

“I’m okay.”

 

There was a pause, a silence stretching out between the three ladies in the room. Payal decided that maybe she should give them some space so excuses herself. With Payal gone, Anjali felt herself loosen up a bit, felt a bit braver.

 

“You look beautiful.”

“Thank you Di… I mean, Anjali ji.”

 

Realising how inappropriate it was now to call her Di, Khushi felt the need to change the way she addressed Anjali.

 

“You don’t have to stop calling me Di. It may not have worked out between you and Chote but that doesn’t mean that I don’t still care for you. Please, keep calling me Di. I really like it.”

“Okay Di.”

 

Looking away again, Khushi realised that there was much that she needed to say, and something she needed to do.

Taking hold of her bag that was sat beside her, she fished in it until her felt the little velvet box under her fingers. Pulling it out, she took one last look at it before handing it back to Anjali.

 

“Can you… Can you give that back to him. I can’t keep it.”

 

Looking between Khushi and the ring box, Anjali felt at a loss. She didn’t know what to do.

 

“I can’t…”

“Please take it and give it back to him. I can’t keep it.”

“I think he’d want you to keep it.”

“I understand that, but if I held onto it, I’ll never be able to move forward in my life.”

 

It made sense, Anjali knew that. But she also knew that if she took this ring back, it really would be the end of Arnav and Khushi and she wasn’t sure it she was ready for that. But alas, she knew that she couldn’t be selfish and took the box from Khushi.

Tears fell from Khushi’s eyes as she handed the box over. It really was over.

 

“I’m sorry Di. I hope you know that I’m really sorry.”

“Sh, it’s okay.”

“And tell him I’m sorry as well.”

 

Nodding, Anjali got to her feet because she didn’t know how much longer she could remain here without having a breakdown on behalf of her brother.

 

“I wish you a very happy married life Khushi.”

 

And with that, Anjali left. The moment the door shut behind Anjali, Khushi get herself completely shatter. She had given back Arnav’s ring. Their relationship was done.

Sat alone in the room, Khushi waited for someone to come for her when there was a little knock on the door.

 

“Come in.”

 

Slowing pushing the door open, Lalita returned and took the seat next to her daughter.

 

“Mom…”

“Dekho Khushi. I’m saying this for the very last time, if this isn’t what is going to make you happy, there is still time to turn back. It’s not too late yet.”

 

Bless her mother. She had been repeating the same thing over and over again. She knew that Rohan wasn’t who she truly wanted to be with.

 

“I told you Ma, this is what I want.”

“I hope you know what you’re doing Khushi. I really do.”

“I do.”

 

*****

 

The main wedding ceremony was about to begin. The baraat had arrived and Khushi was seated beside Rohan on the stage. They greeted guests while they waited for the auspicious time to arrive. Looking around, Khushi took in all the guests that had come to the wedding. As she looked around, she saw an upset looking Anjali towards the back of the hall. Shyam has his arm around her, talking to her, patting her. She then saw Naniji. She too didn’t look entirely happy.

Carrying on round, Khushi’s eyes finally fell on her mother. She looked so pale, her smile so forced. Khushi knew her mother wasn’t convinced by what she had said, and it showed.

Sighing, Khushi turned away. But her attention was brought back when a whole lot of static played overhead.

Turning her attention the sound desk, she saw Arnav.

 

“Testing, can everyone hear me?”

 

There was a pause as Arnav waited for a response. People started turning his way to see what he had to say.

Feeling her palms start to go all sweaty, Khushi felt herself panic. What was he going to say, what was he going to do?

 

“What is he doing?” Hissed Rohan. Shrugging her shoulders, Khushi turned back to Arnav.

“Hi everyone, I’m Arnav Singh Raizada. Some people may know that Khushi and I were in business together before. I’ve come here today to wish her and Rohan a happy married life.”

 

Khushi watched Shyam and Akash daft through the crowd and make their way over to Arnav. They must have been telling him to come away, but he wasn’t done yet.

 

“I would like to present a song for the lovely couple.”

 

The guests, unaware of anything, began to clap, thinking Arnav was being sweet. But Khushi had a sick feeling in her stomach. Why was he here? Why would he come today? Why on her wedding day? Didn’t he realise how hard it was going to be any way without him actually turning up here?

But before any other thoughts could pass through Khushi’s mind, the music started up.

 

Of course, of course he would pick this song. The insinuations weren’t missed by the guests, many turned to Khushi, eyebrows raised. They knew what was going on here.

 

“Channa mereya mereya, o piya… O piyaa…”

 

Tears fell from Khushi eyes. Why would he do this? How could he… But Khushi watched as the tears fell from his eyes as well and she realised how he could do this. She’d hurt him beyond anything else.

Arnav kept singing the soulful lyrics, the guests completely swept away by him. When finally the song came to an end, there was a big round of applause for Arnav, as he took a little bow. Getting out from behind the sound desk, Khushi watched as Shyam put his arm around Arnav and led him away to where the rest of the Raizada’s were sat.

Looking away, Khushi turned to Rohan because she knew he would need calming down, only to find Rohan was no longer seated beside her. Turning back, she saw him, making his way over to Arnav.

 

Oh no.

 

If Arnav had created a scene, it meant Rohan was going to create more of a scene now.
By the time Rohan was able to make it across the crowd, Arnav had already started turning away to leave. He was at the door when Rohan places his hand on his shoulder, stopping him.

 

“We need to talk.”

“I’m sorry, I can’t be here any longer.”

“You came here today, now you have to wait until I dismiss you.”

 

Guiding Arnav back into the venue, Rohan steered him towards an empty room down the side. Pushing Arnav in first, he followed him in, shutting the door behind them.

Away from all the crowds and in the dim light, Rohan really took Arnav in. His eyes were red, he had large bags under his eyes, and his hair and beard were all starting to go slightly out of control.

Rohan had come in here with every intention to beat the crap out of Arnav for creating a scene on his wedding day, but looking at him now… Rohan felt for the man in front of him. The first time he’d met Arnav, every aspect of him was clean cut and perfect. Now, Arnav was the complete opposite. It was also evident that Arnav had lost a fair amount of weight.

 

“Why did you come here today?”

“I don’t know… I hoped… I don’t know.”

“What did you hope?”

 

Rohan watched as Arnav tried to answer. But there was no answer, just tears.

 

“Arnav…”

 

Wiping his tears away, he pulled on a smile.

 

“I’m sorry, I don’t know what’s up with me. I’m fine. I should leave.”

 

Turning to the door, Arnav was ready to bolt. He didn’t want to be here, he didn’t want to be sharing the same space or the same air as Rohan.

 

“Wait! Let me speak.”

 

Letting out a sigh, Arnav turned his attention back to Rohan.

 

“Do you love her?”

“What kind of a question is that?”

“It’s a serious one and one I need an answer to, right now.”

“I’d have thought it was obvious.”

“It was, up until you publicly called out yesterday for being a cheat.”

 

Rohan watched as Arnav turned away again, his cheeks the lightest shade of pink.

 

“I need to apologise to her for that. I didn’t mean to… I wasn’t drunk, but I’d had a few drinks to calm myself down and I guess… I reacted badly last night. I wanted to make it up to her, but I realise my song choice today wasn’t ideal either.”

“It wasn’t. Especially when you’re so transparent. I think all the guests realised that you’re in love with her.”

 

There was a pause. Neither men could think of anything to say.

 

“Just keep her happy Rohan, that’s all I ask. I know it must be weird, marrying her, knowing everything you know about us, but please. Be good to her. She picked you because she sees a future with you, so keep her happy.”

 

Once again, Arnav turned to leave but Rohan stopped him.

 

“I will. I’ll make her happy. I’ll bring her smile back again, and give her the happy ending she deserves. I promise you Arnav.”

Unwanted ~ Part 38

Arnav

Was I frustrated? Yes.
Was I starting to get super impatient? Yes.
Did I want to get sexually involved with my wife again? Fuck yes.

Initially, I had always made sure to keep a respectable distance between me and Khushi because I wanted to be able to focus on my relationship with Arushi. But now that things were going well for me and Arushi, I wanted to be able to focus on me and Khushi.

It wasn’t just the physical intimacy that I was craving, it was just being with her, speaking to her in person. She was always busy with work, or just busy being a mum. There had been a number of times when I had tried to make plans, but she wasn’t willing to commit because it meant leaving Arushi.

But tonight she was coming over. After much insistence, she had agreed to coming round to mine for dinner. I had just finish laying the table and was just waiting for the last curry to finish cooking.

Just as the curry finished cooking, the doorbell rang. Taking the food off the cooker and placing it on the table, I went to answer the door. There before me, stood Khushi with a box of jalebis.

 

“Hey, come on in.”

 

I let her in first and then shut the door behind her. With the door shut, she handed me the box of jalebis.

 

“I made these for you just before coming, so they’ll still be nice and crispy.”

“Thank you! I’ve been craving your jalebis for the last 6 years.”

 

She laughed, shaking her head as she made her way into the living room. I watched as she took her coat off and draped it neatly over the armrest of the sofa.

 

“Take a seat and I’ll just finish up with dinner.”

“Is there anything I can help you with?”

“No no, you take a seat.”

 

She nodded, sitting down. I went back into the kitchen and grabbed the last of dinner and put it on the table. Just as I was pouring water into our glasses, Khushi walked into the kitchen.

 

“Something smells amazing!”

“It maybe my lasagna or I could be my curry that I’ve cooked.”

“What kind of curry is it?”

“Its a cauliflower one.”

“Oh that sounds great!”

 

Checking the table, I made sure everything was here and then pulled a chair out for her to sit down.

 

“Dinner is ready my lady.”

 

Smiling, Khushi took her seat and I came and sat down opposite her. Let the sexual tension over fine dining begin.

 

*****

 

We finished dinner quite quickly and Khushi had insisted on helping me with tidying up. Because of that, we had tidied up quickly and now I felt at a bit of a loss. Khushi had already mentioned leaving, but I didn’t want her to go yet. I wanted to spend some time with her alone.

We were now sat on the sofa, drinking some coffee. I’d put the TV on for the sake of it being on. Khushi slowly sipped on her coffee and she sent out a text to Raj to check on Arushi.

 

“Is Arushi okay?”

“She’s fine. She’s gone to sleep and Veera mausi is with her.”

“So you’re okay to stay for a while.”

“Yeah, I can stay a little longer.”

 

She gave me a little smile and then went back to her coffee.

This wasn’t enough, nothing was happening. Somehow we’d run out of topics to talk about and this awkward silence was eating me up. I needed to do something. Something needed to happen. Otherwise this would have been a complete waste of time.

I put my mug down and so did she. I watched as she looked up at the clock and then at me.

 

“Arnav I…”

“I don’t want you to go yet.”

“But…”

 

I scooted closer to her. And then a little more. Enough of this waiting game. What was I waiting for?

 

“Arnav…”

 

Her breathing hitched as I shuffled that little bit closer to her, to the point where there was no longer any space between us. I placed my hand on her knee and I looked into her eyes. I needed to make sure…

She looked straight back at me, her eyes wide with confusion. But she didn’t move.

 

“Arnav…”

 

I moved a little closer to her, my hand moving further up her thigh. I leaned into her and finally her confusion melted away and she gave me a little nervous smile.

 

“I’ve been dying to kiss you.”

 

My sentence came out low and quiet, a whisper almost.

 

“I’m dying for your kiss.”

 

That was all I needed. She wanted this as much as I did, and she wanted it now. I closed my hands around her thigh and moved right in, my lips hovering over hers. Her eyes fluttered shut and then I closed my own. I felt her shudder slightly as our lips met, and her lips felt like they didn’t know quite what to do. But I wasn’t about to break away now.

I wrapped my arms around her waist and pulled her closer to myself, pressing my lips further against hers. It took her a moment but she fell into the kiss, her lips easing apart as she started kissing me back. Her arms found their way around my neck and she pulled me further into herself.

I felt my brain start going fuzzy as I started losing myself in the kiss. My hands found her waist and I leaned further into her, making her lean back. I kept going until I was half over her.

We kept kissing, my hand moving along her body, while she ran her hands in my hair. She hooked her leg around my waist, pulling me even closer to herself. I wanted to get closer to her, to touch her, but this angle and this location just wasn’t working, I couldn’t fully get into the mood.

I broke the kiss when we needed air, and then I pulled her up. Getting off the sofa, I scooped her up into my arms.

 

“Arnav…”

“Bedroom.”

 

I waited for her to protest, but she didn’t. Carrying her in my arms, I made my way towards my bedroom. She wrapped her arms around my neck and started kissing my face again.

See at one point I had thought that maybe she didn’t want me as much as I had wanted her, but now, the way she was reacting, it was evident that she had been waiting for this as much as I had.

Once in the bedroom, I put her down onto the bed and then went back to take my shirt off before coming back over her.

I moved her kameez to the side a little, exposing her waist and I placed my hand on her. I felt her shudder slightly before she leaned up to meet my kiss again.

My hands ran all along her body and she did the same. I moved back again and found the edges of her kameez and pulled it off. Her eyes snapped open as she felt me undress her and she sat up, covering her body.

 

“No…”

 

I looked at her, and I could see that she didn’t feel comfortable. Grabbing the blanket at the end of my bed, I draped it around her body. Maybe it was too soon for this, maybe it’d been so long that she just needed some more time.

 

“What’s wrong?”

“I just…

 

I moved closer to her and wrapped my arm around her.

 

“It’s okay, if you don’t want to, or if you’re not ready, it’s fine. There’s no pressure.”

“It’s not that… I do want to… I’ve missed you so much and I’ve been waiting for this but…”

 

She was tense, I could tell. I wrapped my arm more tightly around her and held her close to myself.

 

“If there’s something bothering you, you can talk to me about it.”

 

She looked down and I waited for her to response. She took a little breath and then looked at me.

 

“I just… I’m not like what I used to be, I’ve changed…”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean my body… It’s nothing like how it was all those years ago. I’m not… I’m not sexy… I don’t look sexy…”

“Hey.”

 

I moved my arm off of her and looked at her. What did she mean she wasn’t sexy? Had she seen herself? How could she think…

 

“I’m fatter and I have stretch marks and I…”

 

I placed my finger on her lips, stopping her from talking.

 

“Khushi, stop. I know you’re not the same as you used to be. I can see the difference but just because you’ve changed doesn’t mean you’re any less sexy than you used to be. Khushi, I don’t expect you to be the same! Six and a half years have passed. We’ve gotten olden. Heck, you’ve been pregnant and have given birth to our child. I know the changes that come with that.”

I moved back into her, slowly peeling away the blanket that I had placed around her.
I felt her shiver, but I carried on. I needed to tell her what I thought about her.

I placed my hand on her exposed stomach, tracing my finger along the barely there stretch marks.

 

“These marks… These symbolise the change your body has gone through. They symbolise your journey from a woman to a mother.”

 

I pushed her back slowly, laying her down back onto the bed. I moved over her, my hands on her waist, trailing down to her hips. Maybe I was imagining it, but I’m pretty sure her hips were wider than they used to be, but I wasn’t going to say, just in case I was wrong.

I placed little kisses on her belly before moving back over her, homing in on her breasts.

 

“You’re breasts… I used to think they were perfect before, but now… Bliss, pure heaven. I used to think you were womanly before but now… Fuck Khushi. Fuck, fuck, fuck! Looking at you right now, looking at your breasts… You have no idea how hard it is to keep my control.”

 

She opened her eyes and looked straight into mine.

 

“You really think… You still find me sexy?”

“I find you sexier than ever before.”

 

I watched as a little smile played on her lips before she pulled me back to herself.
I settled myself down between her legs, my hands on her breasts, kneading them gently.

I pulled her off the bed and reached behind her. Unclipping her bra, I carefully took it off her before throwing it over my shoulder. Her breasts fell loose and I felt my control go out the window. Through clothes it was evident that she’d filled out a lot more. Seeing her like this…

I felt myself snap completely. I was on her, a nipple between my lips, my hand on her other breast. She fell further back into the bed, sinking into the mattress as she clutched onto my hair, bringing me closer to herself.

I let my hand trail down her body, letting myself caress her stomach before moving lower.

Her breathing got heavy as I rolled her nipple with my tongue and caressed her over her panties. This was happening. We were happening.

She pulled me up to herself just as I was ready to push a finger into her.
She pulled me towards herself, pressing a kiss onto my lips before breaking away.

 

“Protection.”

“Aren’t you on the…”

“No.”

 

I scooted back a little and hovered over her.

 

“You’re not?”

“No I… I came off the pill after I left home. I mean I went on it for a while after I had Arushi because the doctor said it’d help me regulate again. But I haven’t been on it for ages.”

“Oh… I don’t have any…”

“You don’t?”

“Why would I?”

 

She nodded, understanding what I was saying. I mean really? Why would I have had condoms? Well, technically I probably should have bought some, especially when things started brewing before me and Khushi again, but I hadn’t got any yet.

 

“Maybe we should just go au natural.”

 

Hitting my shoulder playfully, she gathered the blankets around her shoulders and started getting up.

 

“As much as I’d want to, I don’t want anything baby just now. So we’ll wait.”

 

I didn’t want another baby right now either, but I rolled my eyes and pouted for the sake of it any way. I pulled her back to myself and brushed my lips against her.

 

“Next time, we’re going to make it a home run.”

 

Hiding her face in my chest, I felt Khushi’s warm cheeks against my skin and wrapped my arms around her. For the first time in a long time, I was at peace. Finally, finally things were going my way. Finally.

 

Jalebi ~ Part 35

 

By the time Khushi and Rohan got home from the engagement party, it was quite late at night. Khushi’s parents had been invited to stay at Payal’s maternal home with her parents for the night.

Kicking off her shoes, Khushi stretched out her legs and began unpinning her dupatta from her lengha top. As she put her dupatta down, she heard a voice behind her.

 

“Wow, you are gorgeous.”

 

Looking into the mirror, Khushi saw Rohan stood by the door staring at her. Grabbing hold of her dupatta, Khushi covered her chest before turning around.

 

“Rohan! What are you…”

 

Slowly walking towards her, Rohan stepped right up to Khushi and placed a hand on her waist. Khushi squirmed ever so slightly against his touch but didn’t move.

Raising his hand, he slowly pushed her dupatta off one shoulder, letting it fall, exposing her chest.

Jumping away slightly, Khushi attempted to cover herself back up, but Rohan stopped her.

 

“Rohan…”

“Let’s do it tonight.”

“Do what?”

“Consummate our marriage.”

 

Eyes wide, Khushi covered herself up and moved back. Rohan slowly made his way towards her again.

 

“We can’t. We’re not married yet.”

“Technicalities. We will be soon and I don’t want to wait any more.”

 

Khushi carried on moving back until her back hit the wall. Rohan came right up to her, his face a mere inch away from hers.

 

“Rohan…”

 

Hand on her waist, he brushed her dupatta away again, but this time letting it fall away from her completely. Raising her arms, Khushi attempted to cover herself.

 

“You don’t need to cover yourself from me. Soon I’m going to see everything.”

“Rohan please.”

 

One hand still on her waist, he ran his finger down the side of her face and followed it down her neck.

 

“Stop!”

 

With all her might, Khushi pushed Rohan away from herself, grabbed her dupatta and moved to the other side of the room.

 

“What the fuck Khushi? Why do you act like that?”

“I told you I wasn’t comfortable with all this and you still…”

“Not comfortable my ass. Act as innocent as you want but you forget I’ve seen you having sex with Arnav. So don’t you dare act like…”

“Exactly! With Arnav! You’re not Arnav! I don’t feel comfortable… I’m not ready to… I can’t with you okay!”

 

Shaking his head, Rohan grabbed a fistful of his hair and yanked on it. He’d waited so long to be with Khushi and now that he had her, she was still keeping her distance from him.
Rohan realised that he was wasting his time and so just left Khushi’s room.

The moment he was gone, Khushi rushed over to her bedroom door and locked it, before coming back and sitting on her bed. Covering her face with her hands, it dawned on her how much of a mess she was actually in. She may have been able to tell Rohan to back off today, but soon they would be married and she didn’t know how long she’d be able to hold him off for.

As her husband, it would be his right to get intimate with her. How long would she be able to say no? In her heart, Khushi knew that she’d never be ready to do it with Rohan. Whether her love for Arnav would decrease or not, she knew that the relationship she’d shared with Arnav was special and unique. She didn’t think she’d be able to replicate something like that with Rohan.

 

*****

 

Payal returned home and found Arnav and Akash sat together in the living room, watching tv together and laughing. It felt good to see the two of them together and happy. It showed that Arnav had come to terms with what had happened between himself and Akash and maybe now they would be able to move forward happily.

Akash noticed Payal first. Getting to his feet, he walked over to her and placed his hand on her waist.

 

“Hi.”

“Hi.”

 

Something seemed different about Akash. He seemed a lot more at ease and his touch felt much more warm and tentative than it had ever done before.

 

“How was the party? I’m sorry I didn’t come with you, I should’ve done.”

“It was okay and it’s alright. You’ll have to come with me to all the other rituals.”

“Did Khushi…”

 

Looking over his shoulder, Akash saw that Arnav was no longer paying attention to them.

 

“Did Khushi say anything?”

“She asked for you and said you should have come. Other than that, she said we should all start moving forwards with our lives because that’s what she’s trying to do.”

“So she’s actually happy?”

 

Sighing, Payal took Akash’s hand and pulled him further away from where Arnav was sitting.

 

“Honestly, I don’t know why she’s going ahead with this. It’s evident that she’s still very much in love with bhai.”

 

Running his hand through his hair and saw his brother sitting and watching tv.

 

“This is all my fault. I’ve ruined everything for them.”

 

Placing a light kiss on Akash’s cheek, Payal took his hands in her own.

 

“I’m not going to lie and say you didn’t cause this. But at the same time I will say that it’s okay. You messed up but you realise you were wrong and you’ve tried to fix your error. Both bhai and Khushi have forgiven you, so we should all just try and move forward now.”

“And what about you? Do you forgive me?”

 

Pressing her hand on his cheek, Payal smiled.

 

“I love you more than anything. I got annoyed at you, but everyone makes mistakes. So yes, I have forgiven you.”

 

Taking her hand back in his own, Akash pressed a kiss on her knuckles.

 

“I must have done some really good deeds to be blessed with you. I love you Payal.”

“I love you too.”

 

*****

 

It was evident to Arnav what was going on between his brother and sister in law. It made him happy to know that despite everything, Payal and Akash were going to be okay. Realising that there was no need for him to be around anymore, Arnav smiled and got to his feet and made his way up to his room. As he was climbing the stairs, a call from a number he didn’t recognise came in.

 

“Hello?”

“Hi Arnav.”

 

Pausing, Arnav furrowed his eyebrows as he tried to work out who was calling.

 

“Who’s this?”

“It’s Rohan.”

 

Feeling all his blood drain out of his body, Arnav took the stairs three at a time up to his room.

 

“Rohan? Why are you…”

“I just thought I’d call to let you know that it would be ideal if you stayed as far away from Khushi as you possibly could.”

“Excuse me? I don’t think you’ve noticed but I haven’t been anywhere around her, nor have I been trying to contact her.”

“I know, but I just thought I’d call to let you know any way. Khushi’s moved on and she doesn’t need you to try and force your way back into her life.”

“I really don’t understand why you’re calling me. I accepted that and I’ve backed off.”

“Again, I just wanted to reiterate. Besides, me and Khushi have now consummated our relationship so… We really don’t need you to try and come between us.”

 

Now Arnav really did go completely cold. Khushi and Rohan… She’d… How could she? So soon after as well.

 

“You… You what?”

“We took our relationship to the next level and in a couple of days we’re going to be married. So it would be better and easier for everyone if you just stayed away.”

 

With that, Rohan disconnected the call, feeling super smug with himself. Arnav on the other hand stood in the middle of his room, staring at his phone, feeling completely drained.

She… How?

Throwing his phone down onto his bed, he left his room and went to the room with the bar. He needed a drink.

 

*****

 

After the day Rohan had tried to come close to Khushi, he managed to keep himself at bay. And once he had calmed down, he did go and apologise to Khushi for his behaviour.
Realising that there was no point holding onto something like that, Khushi accepted Rohan’s apology and normality resumed between them.

There had been no word from Arnav and Khushi was glad. She knew she had to move on, and the more she avoided him, the better it would be for her. There were only a couple of days until the wedding and things were going well until…

 

“We have to go to this event Khushi.”

 

An invitation had arrived for Khushi. It was an invite to AR’s annual fashion show where they would be releasing their latest line.

 

“I can’t go! There’s so much to be done before the wedding and…”

“I know, but this is a big deal, you have to go.”

“There’s nothing to say that my attendance is a must.”

“There isn’t, but the media will all be waiting on you. It’s not a known fact that you and Arnav were business partners, and it’s a known fact that the businesses have been completely separated again. If you don’t go, it will give the media all the more reason to talk rubbish about you and Khushiyan. If you don’t go, people really will believe that there’s bad blood between Khushiyan and AR and that could have a negative impact on your business.”

 

Thinking about the point that Rohan was making, Khushi knew he was correct. But going to this event would mean that she would have to see Arnav, would have to interact with him otherwise the press would have a field day.

 

“I don’t know…”

“You just have to make a short appearance and then you can leave. I’ll be by you the whole time.”

 

After much deliberation and great reluctance, Khushi agreed to attend the event, but she made it clear that she would only stay for the minimum amount of time.

 

*****

 

Checking her dress in the mirror one last time, Khushi picked up her clutch bag and then left her bedroom. She had been stressing about the event and how things would go and now the moment was here.

Rohan was waiting for her by the front door, ready in a black suit and wearing a dark green tie to match her dress.

Here goes nothing.

 

*****

 

Upon arrival at the large venue where the fashion show was being held, Khushi was met by Aman who was responsible for making sure that everyone who was attending were invited.

 

“Ah Miss Gupta, it’s a pleasure to see you again!”

“Hi Aman. How are you?”

“I’ve been well, yourself ma’am?”

“I’ve also been very well thanks.”

 

After the pleasantries were over, Aman pointed out which suits had been reserved for herself and Rohan.

 

“You’re important to AR so Mr Raizada wanted to make sure you guys had good seats. You had seats on the front row, beside Mr Akash and his wife.”

 

Nodding, Khushi led Rohan over to where they were to be sat. A lot of people had already taken their seats and Khushi could already see Payal and Akash getting settled.

As they made their way towards their seats, Khushi kept an eye out for Arnav, but he was nowhere to be seen. As they got closer to their seats, Payal noticed them and waved them over.

Hugging Khushi, Payal said hi to Rohan before sitting down again.

Taking her own seat, Khushi sat down and made herself comfortable with Rohan sat to her right and Payal to her left.
Leaning over to Payal, Khushi whispered to her.

 

“Where’s Arnav?”

“He’s backstage preparing to open the show.”

“How has he been?”

“He’s been okay I guess, a little quiet, hadn’t been talking to anyone much at home, but then I guess that isn’t anything really new.”

 

This made Khushi feel a little better. Maybe Arnav was coming to terms with what had happened and he was starting to accept that they needed to move on and go forward with their lives separately.

As the light dims, those who were standing rushed to their seats and settled down as they waited for the show to start. Momentarily, the whole venue was completely black but then a bright spot light came on, revealing Arnav in the middle of the stage.

Taking him in, Khushi realised he wasn’t okay or that he hadn’t been okay. His eyes looked tired with dark circles around them. His beard not as neat as he usually kept it and his hair slightly out of control.

 

“Welcome to the annual AR fashion show! Thank you to everyone for joining us tonight. Without further ado, let’s get into the show.”

 

All the lights went down again but moments after, coloured lights came on, followed by a large light, lighting up the runway. Arnav had moved to the end of the runway, a mic in his hand.

 

The music kicked in and he first models began to descend the runway. Khushi’s eyes remained locked on Arnav, as did many others. The beat of the song dropped and Arnav started to sing.

 

“Mera dil jis dil pe fida hai, ek bewafaa hai…”

 

Eyes wide, Khushi realised what he was doing here. He was publicly calling her out without actually calling her out. Turning to Payal, Khushi realised that Payal too was looking at her with wide eyes.

 

“Did you…”

 

Shaking her head, Payal placed her hand on Khushi’s and gave it a light squeeze.

 

Shit.

 

“Tu bewafaa…”

 

Is that what he thought of her? That she was unfaithful? A cheat? Turning to Rohan, she could understand why he’d have such a bad opinion of her, she couldn’t blame him.

Turning her attention back to Arnav, she saw him staring intently at her while he carried on singing. Rohan places his had on Khushi’s knee.

During the musical breaks where Arnav wasn’t singing, the models kept coming out, showcasing ARs latest collection. But Khushi couldn’t take any of it in, her eyes were fixed on Arnav.

 

“Koi sheesha agar toote, bari avaaz hoti hai, magar dil toot jaane ki, saada koi nehin sunta.”

 

Looking down, what Khushi had already known, made itself more prominent in her mind. She was hurting him. She was hurting him so so much. She was hurting too, but maybe she was hurting Arnav far more. Maybe he was feeling it far more than she was.
Rohan’s hand on Khushi’s knee tightened and she turned her attention back to him.

 

“I’m going to kill that bastard.”

“No Rohan, leave him.”

“But he’s trying to publicly defame you.”

“He’s hurting. No one knew about us so no one knows he’s aiming anything at me. Please just leave him.”

 

Shaking his head, both Rohan and Khushi turned their attention back to Arnav. He wasn’t done yet.

 

“Use bhi neend naa aaye, woh bhi jage tamam raat, woh bhi kisike pyar main tadpe khuda kare.”

“Usne mujhko tadpaye hai, main bhi usko tadpaunga.”

 

Oh no, oh no no no. Khushi was well aware of which song this was. Aware of the lyrics and what they meant.

 

“Woh sar jhukaye baite hai, dekho gairo ki baaho main.”

 

Turning to her side, she realised just how fitting his words were. Here she was, pretty much in Rohan’s arms when she and Rohan and Arnav knew she was still very much in love with Arnav.

 

“Let’s go.”

 

Rohan got to his feet and took Khushi’s hand. He was done. Khushi hesitated for a moment but was yanked to her feet by Rohan. Turning to Payal, she saw Payal had a shocked expression on her face. A combined result of what Arnav had done and what she’d just witnessed between Khushi and Rohan. Looking over her shoulder, Khushi watched as Arnav ended the song, his eyes still fixed on her.

As the song came to a close, everyone got to their feet, clapping and stamping. Arnav had brought the house down.

The fashion show was a hit, but not because of the designs that had been displayed, but because of the soul tugging performance given by Arnav. While everyone was still distracted, Rohan pulled Khushi out of the venue and into the car park.

 

“Rohan…”

“We’re getting married tomorrow evening.”

“Tomorrow?”

“We were meant to marry in three days time, I’ve decided enough is enough. I’m done waiting. We’re getting married tomorrow. Everyone is ready any way, I can organise for it to be moved.”

“But…”

“I’m sick of that obsessed lover of yours. The moment he realises you’re unavailable, the better. So we’re getting married tomorrow. That’s it.”

 

Unable to think of anything to say, Khushi’s accepted defeat and nodded. Arnav had been acting slightly obsessive. Maybe getting married and getting all this over with would help sort things.

Tears pricked in Khushi’s eyes as she realised just what was happening.

She was going to get married. Tomorrow. To a man who wasn’t Arnav…

 

Unwanted ~ Part 37

Khushi

It was already 7 and I was fussing. After Arnav had mentioned his plans, I had tried to protest, tell him that it wasn’t going to work, but he was adamant to take me out.
I told him that I wouldn’t be able to leave Arushi, but he spoke to Raj who had said he had no issue looking after Arushi and then putting her to bed.

After stalling for ages, I realised I couldn’t wiggle my way out of it and so agreed to go out with him.

It wasn’t that I didn’t want to go out with him, it was just… It had been a really long time since we had been alone together and I didn’t know what to expect.

Since we’d met, every time that we had seen each other, we had discussed Arushi and the best way to ease him into her life. We hadn’t had time to focus on ourselves. Now the time had come. He wants us to talk about our relationship. I don’t know if I’m ready to have that conversation just yet.

Pushing my thoughts away, I focused on the task at hand, getting myself dressed. I looked at the little pile of made on my bed and tried to pull myself together. I was going out with my husband. Given, I hadn’t been out with him in years, but I still didn’t need to fuss over clothes this much.

Going back to my wardrobe, I picked out a black lacy kameez and decided this was what would have to do. Getting my myself dressed super quickly, I sat down at my dressing table and picked a few little pieces of jewellery to go with my outfit.

As I was putting my earrings on, there was a little knock on my door. Turning, I saw Raj leaning against the door, smiling at me.

 

“Almost ready?”

“Almost. Do you think I look okay?”

 

I got to my feet so he could see my outfit properly and he gave me a thumbs up.

 

“You look great.”

“Are you sure? I don’t know if I should wear this or the outfit you gifted me last Diwali.”

“Wear this. The dress I gave you isn’t really dinner date friendly, it’s a bit too heavy for that.”

“True.”

 

I turned back and picked my phone up, checking the time. I still had time before I had to leave. Arnav had said he wanted to pick me up, but I didn’t know how I felt about that. So I told him that I would drive myself there. He had been adamant that he wanted to pick me up, but he realised I really didn’t want him to come to collect me. So he agreed to letting me drive myself there.

 

“Khushi, don’t be nervous.”

“How do you know I’m nervous, I’m not nervous.”

 

He walked into my room and moved towards me, smiling at me.

 

“I know you Khushi. And I can tell from your body language that you’re basically freaking out right now.”

 

I took a quick look over Raj’s shoulder and then went over to shut the door.

 

“Okay, yes I am super nervous.”

“Why? You know Arnav and it’s not like you’re seeing him again for the first time.”

“I know all that. It’s just… I don’t know what to expect.”

 

Raj stopped and he nodded. I knew he knew what I meant.

 

“Don’t have any expectations, go in blind and just roll with how things are going.”

 

He had a point. If I had no expectations, I would feel more at ease.

 

“You can talk to Arnav when you meet him about how you want things to go between you guys. That way, you don’t have to be left guessing and he doesn’t have to stress because he doesn’t know what’s going on in your head. Lay it all out for each other and then work from there.”

“This is way you’re my friend! You always know what to say.”

 

I picked my bag and my phone off my bed and I sent Arnav a quick message saying that I was leaving soon.

 

“Have a great night Khushi and don’t worry about Arushi, me and mom have got her.”

“I never worry about Arushi when she’s with you and Mausi. You guys take better care of her than I do.”

 

Raj gave a little laugh before walking out of my room. I followed him out and shut my door. I was just about to go looking for Arushi, when she came running out of Veera Mausi’s bedroom and hugged me.

 

“Where are you going Mama?”

“I told you, I’m going out with your papa.”

“Ohhhh. Will you come back quickly?”

“I’ll try baby. But if I don’t, go to bed when nani tells you.”

“Can you tell papa something?”

“Of course.”

“Tell him he’s the best papa ever!”

 

I kissed the top of her head and smiled. I’d never get over Arushi calling Arnav papa. When they had met and when she wouldn’t call him papa, it did worry me a little. But now, since yesterday, it was just papa, papa, papa! I think Raj was taken aback a bit that Arushi had started calling Arnav papa, but he didn’t say anything, nor did he show anything. But I understood how he must have been feeling. After years and years of being Arushi’s papa, to suddenly not be her papa must be weird.

 

“Khushi, you’re going to start running late.”

 

Looking at my watch, I realised he was right. Giving Arushi one more hug and waving buy to Raj, I was ready to go. Date night with my husband after almost 6 and a half years… This was going to be interesting.

 

*****

 

When I got to the restaurant, Arnav was already waiting for me at the reception. As I approached him, he walked towards me, wrapping his arm around my waist and pressing a light kiss on my cheek. His lips were soft and warm, like they had been all those years ago.

 

“Hi.”

“Hey.”

“Reservation for Mr and Mrs Raizada?”

 

The waiter nodded and led us to our table. Arnav’s arm didn’t move off of my waist and I was glad he didn’t. I felt like a teenager, going out for the first time with my crush. I felt so lightheaded, I was sure I’d pass out.

When we got to our table, Arnav took his arm away from my waist but took my hand instead and he pulled a chair out for me. I sat down and then he went across and sat down too.

It felt a little awkward and I didn’t know what to say. Looking at him, I could tell he was feeling the same way.

 

“So Arushi told me to tell you you’re the best papa ever.”

“Did she really?”

“Yeah. She talks about you all the time any way, but since yesterday she’s been completely different. It’s like she’s in awe of you. What did you guys do yesterday?”

 

I watched as he smiled.

 

“Father daughter business. Mom doesn’t need to know what we got up to.”

 

I feigned annoyance and crossed my arms.

 

“Oh nice! Now you’re both keeping secrets from me.”

 

He laughed and I couldn’t help but laugh too. I was so glad that they were getting on, that they were really bonding. I uncrossed my arms and I placed my hand on the table. Arnav put his hand on top of mine.

 

“Khushi, I don’t want to sound like an absolute imbecile, but can we not talk about Arushi this evening. I feel like every time we’ve been meeting recently, or every time we speak on the phone, it’s always about Arushi. And as much as I love speaking about our daughter, I want to take some time for us to talk about us.”

 

I nodded. His request was one that made sense. Since that first day when we met again, we hadn’t really taken any time to talk about ourselves or what we want. And as great as it was to finally be able to talk to him about our daughter, I also wanted to talk to him about him, and about us.

 

“How’s everyone at home?”

“They’re good, I spoke to Di and jijaji just before I came out. They all want me to go home.”

 

Home… We hadn’t really discussed what would happen next, what would happen when he went back to Delhi. I mean, he’d mentioned taking us home, but we hadn’t had a serious conversation about it. Arnav was meant to have gone back ages ago, but he had stayed after meeting me and Arushi. But he was needed in Delhi, and I didn’t know how much longer he’d be able to stay here for.

 

“So have you decided when you’re going to go back?”

“As of right now, I don’t have any plans to go back yet, but I’ve been getting calls from Akash and Aman saying I need to start getting back. Important projects and stuff and being lined up and they can’t really go ahead without me.”

“So you’re probably going to have to leave soon?”

 

He looked at me and smiled and squeezed my hand. Maybe he could tell that I was concerned about him leaving.

 

“When I go back, I’m taking you and our baby back with me. So whether I go back next week or next year, you’re both coming with me. I’m not leaving you. No way in hell is that happening.”

 

I wasn’t sure if I was ready to go back yet but before I could say anything. The waiter arrived with the menus and we took them. Arnav opened his up first and had a look down the list. I opened mine up too and had a look.
Maybe he could tell I was unsure of what to order mix or maybe he wanted to move our attention from going home, but he recommended a bunch of dishes.

 

“Wow that’s a lot of dishes that you’ve tried. Have you been here a lot? Lots of hot dates?”

 

I raised my eyebrow and he looked back at me, his own eyebrow raised.

 

“The last time I went on a hot date, it was near enough six and a half years ago. And I must say, it was a super hot date.”

 

I bit my lip a little and looked down, blushing. He was right, it was a hot date. A super hot date. He’d been busy with work the entire week and I guess we’d both been getting a little frustrated that we weren’t able to spend any time together. This was just before all of the Nimisha stuff happened. He took us out one night so we could spend some time together.

Long story short, we never made it to the cinema or to dinner. We found a secluded road, parked under a tree, and then made our way into the backseat of his car.

He smiled at me knowingly, he knew what I was thinking about.

 

“You should pick what you want to eat.”

 

I looked down the menu, reading what everything was and then took his options into consideration too.

When I finally decided on what I wanted, I told Arnav and he relayed it to the waiter when he came back round.

With our orders placed we settled back down as we waited for our food.

 

“So you may have to start going back soon?”

“Yes, but I’m going to try putting it off for as long as I can. I don’t want to have to leave you and Arushi behind and I know you’re not ready to go back yet.”

“But if you need to go…”

“I’m not going to leave without you and our baby. Work can wait.”

 

I couldn’t help but smile. We mattered to him, and he wanted us in his life.

 

“Have you mentioned to anyone that you found me?”

“No. You told me you didn’t want me to…”

“No I don’t. I was just asking.”

“I see. I haven’t. I want to surprise everyone when I take you and Arushi home.”

 

We carried on talking for a while. About everyone at home. He showed me pictures from Payal and Akash’s wedding. He showed me pictures of the kids and it hit me how he didn’t have any pictures Of Nimisha and Pari. I mean I know he doesn’t see them as his family, but it also helped me to see just how incomplete his life had been for all these years. I had thought he was having a great life with Nimi, but it turns out…

 

“I was thinking the other day Khushi, you know, after I had lunch with Raj. It’s going to be really hard for him when you and Arushi leave.”

 

I looked down at the food which had arrived a few minutes before and I pushed it around my plate a little. Arnav was right, and it was something I had thought about myself as well.
I knew it was going to be hard for Raj. Heck, it was going to be hard for me and Arushi as well. For years, Veera mausi and Raj were our family. They were all we had. And now…

 

“Khushi… I was thinking, maybe we need to start thinking about you and Arushi moving in with me.”

 

I almost chocked on my food. I wasn’t expecting him to say something like that. We hadn’t even spoken about moving in together. We had spoken about going back to Delhi at some point, but we hadn’t spoken about moving in together while we were here.

 

“I just think, if we move in together, it would give Arushi more time to get accustomed to having me around. And this way, we’ll be able to spend even more time together. If we just go to Delhi together, it maybe too much for Arushi at one time. If we just go back home, then Arushi would have to get used to living with me full time, but also the whole family. It may be a bit overwhelming. And when we get back to Delhi, I won’t be able to spend much time with her because of work.”

He had a point and I understood what he was saying. But moving in with him? It’s not that I didn’t want to move in with Arnav, but I wasn’t sure if I was ready for that yet.

 

“I don’t know…”
“There’s no rush, nor is there any pressure, but I think it would be helpful for Arushi. And well…”

 

He reached out for me again and placed his hand on top of mine, stroking my skin with his thumb.

 

“I want to be able to spend more time with you as well. Really get our relationship back on track you know.”

 

I did know and I wanted that too. But for some reason the idea of moving in together was giving me palpitations. And not good ones either.

 

“I want to… But I think I just need some time.”

 

He nodded and he smiled. He understood, and that’s all that mattered. He understood and he respected me need for time. What more could I ask for?

 

*****

 

Dinner was done and we were making our way back to our cars. We found his car first and we’re saying goodbye when he placed his hands on my waist and stepped closer to me.

 

“Arnav…”

 

He pushed me back against the car, his hands still on my waist.

 

“I’ve been dying to kiss you. It’s been over six years since I last felt you lips on mine.”

 

I felt myself flush as I looked down. I’d been dying to kiss him too. His hold on my waist tightened as his eyes fluttered shut. I slowly closed mine too as I anticipated what was to come. I felt his breath on my face and I felt my breathing stop altogether. I hadn’t been this close to him in so long and it made me realise just how much I wanted to be close to him.

I felt his lips brush against mine ever so slightly but the sound of a car beeping caused us to jump apart. He was still holding me close when we opened our eyes and looked around us.

He slowly took his hands off me and I couldn’t help but feel slightly disheartened. I wanted to kiss him, but the moment was gone now.
Slowly Arnav took his hands off my waist and smiled.

 

“I guess I should let you get home.”

“Yeah… I should get home.”

 

He nodded and then hugged me quickly before saying goodbye and getting into his car.

I made my way over to my car and I watched as he pulled away. I didn’t want to have to say goodbye to him. I didn’t want to have to go to a house where he wasn’t there. Maybe I was ready to move in with him? Maybe it’s the step I need to take… Maybe…

 

*****

 

I watched as Arnav pushed Arushi on the swings and I sat and smiled. They both were laughing and enjoying themselves.

It had been a few days since me and Arnav had been out for dinner. We hadn’t really spoken again about going home or moving in together, but we had spoken. We’d spoken about ourselves and our daughter. And late at night, when neither of us could sleep, we’d have very adult conversations about how we wanted to be together. About what we wanted to do together.

The first time we’d spoken like that on the phone or through text, I had felt slightly awkward. It hadn’t felt natural, I had felt it was slightly forced from my side, like I had to respond with something sexy.

But now, it came naturally. Because I really did want to be with him. Because I really did want to touch him.

Just thinking about it all now made me want him so much more, but I didn’t know when we’d be able to do all the things we wanted to. It was like the opportunity just wasn’t coming. But I was willing to wait. I didn’t mind having to wait. Because once the opportunity did come, and once it happened, I knew it would all be worth waiting for.

I brought myself out of my thoughts and I turned my attention back to my husband and my daughter who were having the time of their lives. Sometimes it feels a little weird watching them together. I had never thought Arnav would make such a good father. For some reason, I had always been under the impression he’d be the awkward dad type. But he wasn’t. He was a natural dad, and I couldn’t help but fall further in love with him…

 

Jalebi ~ Part 34

It was decided while they were still in the UK that upon arriving back in India, they would have an engagement party. Initially Khushi had been against the idea, claiming she didn’t see what was the need. But Rohan insisted that it was something that he wanted.

Not wanting to argue, Khushi agreed to the idea of having an engagement party.

Still feeling slightly heavyhearted, Khushi went ahead with the engagement party prep with as much enthusiasm that she could muster. It helped that her parents had come back to India with them. If they hadn’t had come, Khushi was certain that all this would be even harder to deal with.

Almost every single day, Garima asked Khushi if she was sure she was making the right decision, and almost every day Khushi gave the same answer.

 

“I am happy with the choice that I have made.”

 

In Khushi’s heart, she knew that she was making the wrong choice. She knew this wasn’t the choice that was going to make her happy, but at the same time, she knew she couldn’t go back. She couldn’t just walk away from Rohan now, not after everything he had done for her.

Sometimes in life, one has to make sacrifices. This was the sacrifice of Khushi’s life. She was sacrificing her love, her Arnav, for Rohan’s happiness…

 

*****

 

The engagement party was in full swing. Rohan and Khushi has decided on hosting their party at a restaurant. It wasn’t a big event, nor had they invited a lot of people, so they were able to host their party in a restaurant.

Greeting their guests with a smile of their faces, they looked the couple. The happy couple. The one everyone had always know would eventually end up together. They were that couple.

As they stood their greeting their friends and family, Rohan slipped his arm around Khushi’s waist and pulled her close to himself.

 

“Rohan…”

“Sh. Smile and keep greeting people.”

“Can you let go of me?”

“Just keep smiling.”

 

Letting out a sigh, Khushi turned her attention back to their guests and smiled and greeted them as they came to talk to her and Rohan. She hated this. Every moment of it.

Looking around the restaurant, Khushi could see there were still a couple of empty seats, meaning that she still had to stand with Rohan, waiting near the door.

 

“Khushi!”

 

Rushing over to her, Payal entered and took Khushi into her arms. Rohan slipped his arm away and walked away, giving Khushi and Payal some space.

 

“You made it!”

“Of course I would! I wouldn’t miss your engagement party for the world.”

 

Looking over Payal’s shoulder, Khushi expected Akash to walk in at any moment, but he didn’t.

 

“Jijaji not with you?”

“No, he didn’t want to come.”

“Fair enough.”

 

Payal threw her arms around Khushi once more and pulled her close to herself.

 

“How have you been?”

“I’ve been okay.”

“No, Khushi, honestly, how have you been?”

 

Pulling away, Khushi looked down at her beautiful light pink lengha and sighed. She should have been super happy today, after all, all these people were gathered to celebrate her engagement, but she wasn’t happy. She had a heavy heart and she didn’t know what to do about it.

 

“I’m okay, considering…”

“Why are you doing this Khushi? Before, I understood. Now? It doesn’t make sense to me.”

“I can’t just leave Rohan now. Not after he accepted me.”

“I get that but bhai… Khushi he’s a wreck. He’s not drinking this time, which is such a relief, but he’s still broken and struggling. If anything, a way, he’s worse this time because he knows what the score is with you.”

 

Looking to Payal, Khushi felt a huge tug at her heart hearing this about Arnav.

 

“He’ll be okay as time goes on.”

 

It was a mare whisper. She couldn’t bring herself to say it out loud because she was worried everyone around her would be able to detect that she knew she was lying.
Would Arnav be okay? Would she ever be okay? Would they both be able to move in from this and learn to accept their circumstances?

 

“He really, really loves you Khushi.”

“I really loved him too jiji. But just because you love someone doesn’t mean that you should be with them.”

 

Opening up her clutch bag, Khushi fishes around a little before pulling out the ring box that Arnav had given her. Looking at the soft box one last time, Khushi handed it over to Payal.

 

“Tell him it’s the most beautiful ring I’ve ever seen. And I love it. But it’s not mine and I can’t keep it. Please also tell him that I’m really sorry.”

 

It pained Payal to take the ring back and it was evident that it was painful for Khushi to be giving it back. But regardless, she knew she couldn’t keep it.

 

“There’s still time, please reconsider. Please Khushi. I know this isn’t the right thing for you to do.”

“It’s over jiji. There’s nothing left to reconsider.”

 

*****

 

Once all the guests had arrived and were seated, Rohan got to his feet and gave a little speech, thanking everyone for joining them and hoping that everyone would leave them kind wishes for their upcoming marriage.

 

“I know a lot of people have been asking us about dates and we haven’t said anything until now. However we have decided on getting married in exactly a months time from now.”

 

There was a gasp from the guests before they started clapping.
This was news for Khushi. She didn’t know anything about dates for the wedding, nor had she realised that they would be getting married so soon. She didn’t appreciate being thrown into the deep end in this manner.

Payal who was sat beside Khushi, gave Khushi a little nudge, her eyebrow raised.

 

“You’re getting married in a month? Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I didn’t know!”

 

Slightly taken aback by Khushi’s response, Payal looked at her sister with concern. She wasn’t sure if this was a good thing or if things were going to end up well. I’m her bones, something just didn’t feel right.

 

*****

 

A quiet little knock on his door brought Arnav out of his thoughts. Looking up, he saw Akash at his door.

 

“Hi bhai.”

“What do you want Akash?”

“Can I come in?”

 

Thinking about it for a moment, Arnav finally nodded and Akash walked in.

 

“You didn’t go to Khushi’s engagement party with Payal?”

“No. I didn’t feel right. And I doubt Khushi would have wanted me there.”

“True, she probably wouldn’t have. But who knows with her.”

“Bhai are you… Are you okay?”

“I’m alright, you?”

 

Nodding, Akash looked around awkwardly before finally taking a seat on the recliner.

 

“I feel like we haven’t really spoken properly in quite a long time.”

“It’s because we haven’t.”

“I know. And I know it’s my fault.”

“Leave it Akash. It’s not worth talking about.”

“No bhai, we do. We need to talk about it.”

 

Sighing, Arnav took a seat on his bed, facing Akash. He didn’t really want to talk to Akash about anything, but he knew that if they wanted to restore peace, then he needed to talk to him.

 

“Bhai, I fucked up. Big time. I made a mess of so much…”

“We’ve been through all that before.”

“I know… I just… I wanted to say I’m really sorry. I don’t know what came over me. I got jealous and I… I actually like a complete arse. I can’t even begin to explain what was going through my head because I don’t know myself. I feel like I went momentarily insane.”

“It’s okay. I mean, it’s not okay, but what’s happened has happened. We’ll work through it. We’re brothers at the end of the day.”

 

Akash felt like a huge weight had been lifted off of his chest. Once he’d actually had the time to think about everything, he realised how messed up it was of him to act the way he did.

 

“I really am sorry bhai. I…”

“It’s okay. I get it. You cared for Khushi for a long time and to see her with me. But you should’ve just told me how you felt. And about the business, you should have just told me you wanted more responsibility. You know I would’ve given it to you, I would’ve made you my co-CEO if that’s what you wanted.”

“I know, I know. Like I said, I honestly don’t know what came over me. I acted like a child. I’m so embarrassed that I did what I did.”

 

It was evident to Arnav that Akash really was repenting, that he really did feel bad about what he had done. But like he had said, they were brothers at the end of the day. And Arnav was the older brother. It was his duty to help and guide Akash.

 

“So we good?”

“We good. But Akash, don’t get me wrong, I do need some time. Things can’t just snap back to the way they were.”

“I understand and I didn’t expect us to be like how we were before. But it’s important to me to know that at least you don’t hate me.”

“Again, you’re my brother.”

 

Getting off the recliner, Akash went over to Arnav and hugged him. Usually he wouldn’t dare, because he knew how much Arnav hated hugs, but he had to today. And to his delight, Arnav hugged him back.
Breaking the hug, Akash sat beside Arnav.

 

“So bhai, what’s the plan? How are you winning Khushi back?”

“There is no plan. Me and her are over.”

“But bhai, you love each other.”

“There’s nothing I can do. She’s made her decision and that’s that.”

“I can’t believe… I’ve ruined everything! Please let me go speak to her. I’ll beg her! She can’t just walk away like this.”

“I appreciate your efforts Akash. But what’s done is done. It’s over.”

 

Arnav could tell that this revelation was disturbing Akash beyond compare. He could tell that he was genuinely stressed out.

 

“It can’t be over. You both love each other so much! Please let me speak to her. I won’t be able to live with myself, knowing that I caused this.”

“It’s hard Akash but we’ll all learn to come to terms with this. I’ve tried my best but if she isn’t willing to take me back even after everything I’ve done for her, then there’s nothing more for us to do.”

 

Opening his mouth to say something else, Akash couldn’t believe what was going on. He’d ruined his brothers life! He’d never intended on this happening. He had been jealous of Arnav’s success but this… This was beyond anything he had anticipated. He hadn’t expected Arnav to fall so desperately in love…
He couldn’t allow this. He needed to do something.

 

*****

 

As the engagement party rolled to a close, most of the guests had finished their dinner and had already started to leave. Only immediate family and close friends remained.

 

“Did you have a good dinner jiji?”

“I did and I really enjoyed myself this evening. Rohan’s really nice and he seems to care for you.”

 

Smiling, Khushi nodded. She knew Rohan cared for her, but at the end of the day, her feelings for Rohan would never compare to the way she felt about Arnav. But it was too late to think about Arnav now. That was over.

Pulling herself out of her thoughts regarding Arnav, Khushi turned her attention back to Payal and mentally kicked herself for not asking about Akash earlier.

 

“Is everything okay between you and Jijaji?”

 

Khushi watched as Payal’s expression dropped as she sighed.

 

“He… I don’t know Khushi. I know he’s sorry for what he did but… I just can’t look at him the same way after knowing he did that to you…”

“Jiji…”

 

Letting out a sigh, Khushi thought about what we she should say. She couldn’t let there be problems between Payal and Akash because of her.

 

“I know it sucks, but jiji, you can’t let this affect your marriage. What’s happened has happened and you just have learn to move on from it.”

“But Khushi…”

“What’s happened has happened. I’m happy jiji. I have no complaints. I have my business back and I’m getting married, I’m happy, I promise.”

 

Both Payal and Khushi knew that Khushi was lying, but they acted as though it was the truth. There was no point trying to call Khushi out on it.

Crossing her fingers and toes, Payal prayed that her little sister find happiness after marriage, but she knew, that truly, Khushi wasn’t happy and that this wasn’t what she wanted. But there was nothing she could do. Prayers was all she had for Khushi.

Unwanted ~ Part 36

Arnav

Straightening out my tie, I looked at myself in the mirror. And then I decided to ditch the tie. I wanted to look like her dad, not a teacher. I checked my outfit again and then decided I didn’t want to wear a suit at all. Getting changed, I decided to wear a jumper with a pair of jeans. Brushing my hair again, I made sure it looked just right and sat down.

After a few days of correspondence with Khushi, we finally decided that today was the day that I would meet Arushi. It took me and Khushi a while to decide on a location where we should meet, but we finally decided that the best place would be Arushi’s favourite ice cream parlour.

Both Khushi and I were feeling apprehensive about the meeting, but according to Khushi, Arushi couldn’t wait. I was glad she was feeling so positive about it, I just hoped she would feel as positive when she actually saw me. She made up the excitement levels for both of us.

Looking at my watch, there was still just over an hour until I needed to be at the ice cream parlour. I had time to calm my nerves, to relax myself.

I looked at my watch again. 56 minutes to go.

The countdown had begun.

 

*****

 

Pulling up in front of the ice cream parlour, I saw Khushi’s little car already there, meaning she and Arushi had arrived.

I parked my car and then sat in my seat. This was it, I was about to officially meet my daughter. I was absolutely petrified. What if she realised I was her dad and then decided she didn’t want a dad. Or what if she realised she preferred Raj over me?

What would happen if Arushi didn’t like me? Would we keep trying to make things work until she did like me? Or would just decide it’s better if I just took a step out of our daughters life? Would that put a stop to anything developing between me and Khushi again?

I shook my head. I was acting like her mother’s lover, a potential step father. I was her dad, her own father. It was going to be okay, it was all going to work out.

 

*****

 

As I walked into the ice cream parlour, Khushi looked up from where she and Arushi were sat and waved. I smiled back and slowly made my way over to them.

This was it.

As I approached, I realised just how strong the resemblance between Khushi and Arushi was. It was uncanny. The same eyes, the same hair, the same smile…

Arushi turned when she saw Khushi waving to me. The surprise she felt was evident from the expression on her face. She got to her feet and rushed over to me.

 

“Mr Raichanda! What are you doing here?”

 

Mr Raichanda? Is that what she thought my name was? Khushi too got to her feet and came over to me.

 

“Hi.”

“Hey.”

 

She gave me a shy little smile before placing her hand on Arushi’s shoulder.

 

“Let’s go back to our table and finish our ice cream.”

 

Nodding, Arushi turned and went back to her table and Khushi turned her attention back to me.

 

“Come on.”

“Have you told her I’m meeting you guys today.”

“I have. She’s super excited.”

“I’m so nervous Khushi. What if she can’t see me as her dad?”

 

She placed her hand on mine and gave it a squeeze.

 

“She’s been waiting for her dad all her life and she adores you as her teacher. Even if takes her a while, she will accept you as her dad.”

“I really hope so.”

 

Smiling, Khushi turned around when I remembered when I wanted to ask her something. Taking told of her hand, I stopped her in her tracks and pulled her back to myself.

 

“Arnav, Arushi will see!

 

I dropped her hand but I stepped closer to her.

 

“Why does she call me Mr Raichanda?”

 

Tipping her head back, Khushi laughed. She looked so attractive, so beautiful and carefree. How I wanted to pull her into my arms and hold her close.
She composed herself and then replied to my question.

 

“I don’t think she can say Raizada so she calls you Raichanda. If she had said Raizada when she first met you I would have realised… I still had a feeling but I never thought she was actually talking about you.”

 

I took a step back, nodding, and she gestured to the table. She went and sat down beside Arushi and I took the seat opposite her. Arushi looked between me and Khushi, her brows knit together.

 

“Mama, when is papa coming?”

 

Her happy carefree expression changed as she shot an anxious glance my way. I realised then that Khushi was struggling and didn’t actually know how to break the news to Arushi, that she hadn’t really thought that far ahead.

So far, Khushi has seemed so calm and collected about all this, I thought, well I relied on her knowing what to do. But looking at her now I realised she didn’t know what to do. I needed to step up.

I cleared my throat and shuffled in my seat. Here goes nothing.

 

“Arushi I…”

 

Her eyes turned to me and Khushi too looked at her, biting her nail.

 

“I’m your dad.”

 

For a moment, there was no expression on Arushi’s face at all. It was almost as though she didn’t hear what I said. Then she blinked slowly and looked at Khushi. Then she blinked again before turning back to me.

 

From the limited time that I had spent with Arushi, I knew this wasn’t a good sign. Arushi always had something to say.

 

“My papa?”

 

I gave a little nod and she turned back to Khushi again.

 

“I don’t understand…”

 

Khushi reached over and took Arushi’s hand and then she placed her hand on mine.

 

“Haan Arushi, this is your papa.”

“But… If Mr Raichanda is my papa, why didn’t he tell me all this time?”

 

Khushi’s hand slipped away from mine and she looked down. This was going to be harder than we thought it was going to be. What were we going to say now? Her question was valid and one I didn’t know how to work around.

Recomposing herself, Khushi placed both her hands on Arushi’s.

 

“We didn’t tell you that Mr Raizada, Arnav, was your dad because we wanted to see how you interacted with him, we wanted to surprise you.”

 

Khushi was uncertain in her response and it was obvious. Arushi seemed to accept the response but she still looked wary. I realised that maybe we should take a bit of a step back, give Arushi a bit of time to take everything in. I got to my feet.

 

“Maybe I should leave and we can speak another time.”

“Wait Arnav.”

 

Getting to her feet, Khushi took hold of my hand and then dropped it again straight away. She gestured for me to sit back down and I did.

 

“Arushi, I know this is a lot for you to take in and you’re only little but whatever has happened has happened. Arnav is your dad. We can work through things slowly and what you want will happen but we just wanted you to know that this is your dad.”

 

Giving a little smile, Arushi nodded and then got to her feet.

 

“Mama can I have some more ice cream?”

“Go ahead and ask the man for some more.”

 

I watched as my little girl walked off before turning my attention back to Khushi.

 

“I feel like this got slightly more messy than I had anticipated it to be.”

“Maybe a little but overall it was okay I guess. We didn’t know what we were really expecting.”

“Will we ever tell her the truth?”

“Maybe one day Arnav, but right now, she’s a child and she doesn’t need to know all the messy details about our lives.”

 

She had a point. No matter how mature Arushi was for her age, at the end of the day, she was just a child. Even if we tried to explain everything, it would be unfair to let so much onto her. Maybe one day we’d explain, but for now, we just needed to focus on making sure we did right by our little girl.

When Arushi returned, she seemed a lot calmer and a little bubblier. Averting the attention off of the topic of paternity, I asked Khushi how Arushi was allowed to have so much ice cream.

 

“Have you not heard about this place before?”

 

I shook my head.

 

“The ice cream served here is suited for all minorities. So they serve ice cream that’s suitable for diabetics, vegans, vegetarians, those who are lactose intolerant, those who have nut allergies, etc. For a while I was unable to find ice cream that Arushi could have and then this place opened up. We haven’t had ice cream from anywhere else since.”

“Well in that case I better go and get myself a bowl as well.”

 

Arushi giggled as I went up and got myself a bowl of diabetic friendly chocolate ice cream. Coming back to our table, I tucked in.

 

“Sir… I mean papa… I…”

 

Looking up from my bowl, I watched as Arushi tried to string her thoughts together. It was clear the whole teacher becomes father thing was a little hard for her to get her head around.

 

“You don’t have to call me papa yet if you think it’s a bit weird. You can just call me Sir or Mr R…”

 

Khushi looked as though she wanted to protest, but I stopped her. It didn’t matter what Arushi called me, I was her dad all the same. When she was ready, she would address me as her dad.

 

“Mr R, do you like ice cream more or jalebis more?”

“Is that a trick question? Of course I like jalebis more! Especially the ones your mom makes for me.”

“Same! I like jalebis more too!”

 

She put her little hand out to me and I gave her a high five. Khushi laughed as Arushi began telling me about how she could eat jalebis all day every day.

We made small talk. We spoke about the little things Arushi liked and I told her about the things I liked. Khushi sat back with a coffee and smiled as me and Arushi bonded.

 

*****

 

Much, much later, I strapped Arushi into her car seat in the back of Khushi’s car and placed a little kiss on top of her head. Shutting the car door, I took a step back and turned my attention to Khushi.

 

“Drive safe.”

“I will. You drive safe too.”

“Of course.”

 

She gave me a little smile as she started to roll the windows back up.

 

“Wait wait!”

 

Both Khushi and I turned our attention to Arushi. Khushi rolled Arushi’s window down again for her.

 

“Can we go out again one day?”

 

Her eyes were full of hope and excitement, just like how Khushi’s used to get.
I walked back up to Arushi’s window and crouched down so I was just the right height.

 

“Of course we can. I’ll speak to your mama about when I’m free and she can tell me when you’re both free and we can all do something nice together. Make a list of all the things you want us to do.”

 

Nodding enthusiastically, she clapped her hands together. Alerting her that they needed to leave, Khushi rolled Arushi’s window back up and gave me a smile.

This was just the beginning of a new journey. And it was going to be amazing.

 

*****

 

“No no no! You’re wrong! It was a cat!”

“I’m sure it was a baby tiger!”

 

Arushi looked at me as though I was nuts and then shook her head. I offered her my hand and she took as it we made our way back to my car after watching a new animated film at the cinema. Khushi wasn’t with us today because she had work and also because she just wanted me and Arushi to spend more time alone to get to know each other.

 

It’d been just over three weeks since I met Khushi and Arushi at the ice cream shop, and things had been going great. I saw Arushi often because it had been the school holidays. But now school has resumed and I could only see her at the weekends, unless Khushi had time in the evening to bring her round to mine for dinner.
We were juggling, but it was all going well.

As we neared the curb, Arushi took my hand as we prepared to cross the road. Just as we were about to go, a woman called out to Arushi, making us stop and turn. Two women were walking towards us.

 

“Hello auntie.”

“Oh Arushi sweetie, how are you? Where’s your mama?”

“She’s at work.”

 

The first woman turned her attention to me and raised an eyebrow.

 

“Hi I’m Arnav Singh Raizada, I’m Arushi’s…”

“Ah yes yes, I understand.”

 

What did she understand? Who was this woman and why was she looking at me like I was a crook? I watched as she placed a hand on my daughters shoulder.

 

“Be sure to tell your mom that I saw you today. And tell her you both should come by my house soon.”

“I will auntie.”

 

The woman Arushi has been talking to turned away and so we did too, ready to make our way to my car. As we stood at the curb waiting for the light to change again, I heard the woman start talking.

 

“Oh Sheila you know my friend Khushi, that’s her daughter.”

“Oh I see.”

“No you don’t see. She’s a single mother that lives as a paying guest with a man and his mother. To the outside world, it seems as though Raj is Arushi’s dad. But he’s nothing to either of them, Khushi’s just using him. Looks like she’s found another man to…”

 

How dare she? How dare she think like that of my Khushi? And she claims to be Khushi’s friend. I wasn’t going to stand for that.

Turning back, I tapped the woman on the shoulder.

 

“I’m sorry, I don’t think I introduced myself properly. I’m Arnav Singh Raizada, Arushi’s father. Khushi’s husband.”

 

I watched as her expression dropped and Arushi’s hand in mine tightened.

 

“Khushi’s husband?”

“I’m going to request you to not speak about my wife or my family, especially if you don’t know the details.”

“Excuse…”

“Why me and Khushi have lived separately up until now is a personal matter and not something that needs to be common knowledge.”

 

With that, I turned away and me and Arushi made our way to the car without looking back. The nerve of some people was unbelievable.

 

Getting to the car, I strapped Arushi in proper and just as I moved back to shut her door, she took hold of my hand. I came back to her, crouching so I was level with her.

 

“What’s the master sweetheart?”

“You shouted at auntie for being rude about mama.”

 

It was a statement, not a question.

 

“Of course I did. You and your mama are important to me, you’re my family and I’m not going to stand for it when people are rude about either of you.”

“Please don’t tell mama, she’ll get upset.”

“I won’t tell, don’t worry.”

“Thanks papa.”

 

As she slowly let go of my hand and smiled at me, I felt my entire body heat up with pride and joy. My daughter called me papa for the first time!

 

*****

 

“You guys back?”

Raj shook my hand and gave Arushi a little hug. To begin with I wasn’t too fond of having him around my wife and daughter all the time, but as I got to know him better, I realised how much of a decent guy he was. He cared for my girls like they were his own family and he accepted me.

 

“We had a great time today didn’t we Arushi?”

 

She nodded and came and gave me a little hug. As Arushi let me go, she went to hold Raj’s hand and dragged him away to tell him all she did.

 

“Wait Raj, where’s Khushi?”

“She came home from work a little while ago, so she’s properly in her room after showering.”

“Can I go through?”

“Sure dude.”

 

I gave him a thumbs up and then made my way to Khushi’s room, stopping at her closed door. I gave it a little knock.

 

“Come in.”

 

I pushed the bedroom door open to find Khushi stood in front of the mirror with the pot of sindoor in her hand. Walking up behind Khushi, I wrapped one arm around her waist and pinched some sindoor with the other hand.

 

“Arnav…”

 

Taking the sindoor, I filled her parting the way I had done all those years ago when I married her.

I watched as Khushi smiled before wrapped my other arm around her too, holding her close to myself, pressing my pelvis against her ass.

 

“Hi.”

 

I dipped my face to her neck and placed a kiss there. She placed her hand on top of mine as she rested her head against my chest.

 

“Arnav, Arushi will…”

“She’s with Raj, telling him all about our day.”

 

I kissed her neck once more before pulling away.

 

“Arushi called me papa.”

 

Spinning in my arms, Khushi looked at me with wide eyes before hugging me.

 

“Oh my goodness! I’m so happy! Finally!”

“Part of my mission is complete, my daughter accepts me. Now for phase two?”

 

Pulling back slightly, she raised her eyebrow.

 

“What’s phase two?”

“Spending time with my wife.”

 

Blushing, Khushi looked down and fiddled with her bracelet. I placed my hands on her waist and she slowly looked up again.

 

“Me, you, dinner, tomorrow night at 8. Be ready babe.”

Jalebi ~ Part 33

A little while Arnav had left, there was a light knock on Khushi’s door.

 

“Not now Rohan, please.”

 

Quietly, the door opened and Rohan walked into the room and sat beside Khushi on the bed.

 

“Are you okay?”

“Please just let me be for a while.”

“I can only imagine how hard this is for you. I’m sorry, that your hurting so much.”

 

Turning away from Rohan, Khushi opened the ring box once more time, looking at it as she cried harder. Looking over her shoulder, Rohan saw the ring.

 

“Did he…”

 

Nodding, Khushi turned to face Rohan.

 

“I think he was going to propose to me with it.”

“You need to give it back.”

 

Rohan was firm with what he was saying.

 

“I wasn’t going to keep it but…”

“You need to give it back. Either he can get his money back for it or he can give it to someone else. But you can’t keep it.”

 

The way Rohan was speaking to her, angered her. What did he think of her? That she was going to keep it? And how could he even suggest that Arnav would give this very ring to someone else? It was clear that this ring was one that he had picked especially for her, it had her name written all over it.

 

“I need you to leave and give me some time.”

“Khushi…”

“Just go Rohan!”

 

Letting out a loud, exaggerated sigh, Rohan got off the bed and left Khushi’s room. Just before leaving, he turned to her one last time.

 

“You need to accept that we’re getting married. The sooner you accept it and learn to deal with it, the less memories of him will affect you.”

 

Shutting the door behind him loudly, Khushi turned to the door, wanting to say something back to him. How dare he? Khushi felt so angry. Angry at the circumstances that she was in and angry at Rohan being such a jerk at a time like this. How she wished she could just turn back time so she never came back to India in the first place.

 

*****

 

When Arnav got home, he was glad to find that everyone had gone out. But as he made his way up to his room, he saw Payal sat in her room, lost in her own world. Knocking on her door, he waited until she acknowledged him.

 

“Bhai? Is everything okay? Come in.”

 

Walking into Payal’s room, she got to her feet and gestured for him to take a seat on the sofa. Taking in his face, it was evident that he wasn’t okay.

 

“What happened?”

“She chose him over me.”

“She what?”

 

Payal knew what had been going on. She knew about Khushi and Rohan and about how Arnav had won the businesses back and given her her business back. But Payal had thought that when all of that got sorted, even if not immediately, at some point Khushi and Arnav would get back together.

 

“Last night… You know I was with her. I thought things would be okay between us. But now, today, she’s telling me she chooses him over me and that despite everything, she wants to marry him.”

“But… She loves you? Surely…”

“That’s what I thought. I thought because she loved me, if I made things right, she’d come back to me. But evidently not.”

“Would you like me to speak to her. To see what she’s thinking and why she’s reacting like this?”

 

Shaking his head, Arnav looked Payal in the eye as he spoke.

 

“No. Don’t bother. She’s not worth it. Screw it and screw her. She’s made her bed and now she can lie in it. I’m done with her and her games.”

“But bhai…”

“I don’t want to speak about her any more. Forget about it Payal.”

 

Knowing that the conversation was over, Payal looked down at her hands. She couldn’t understand why Khushi would do this. She knew that Khushi loved Arnav a lot. And Arnav was everything she wanted. So why…

 

“Payal can I say something to you?”

 

This brought Payal out of her thoughts as she turned her attention back on Arnav.

 

“Of course. There’s no need to ask.”

 

Putting his hands in his lap, Arnav looked up at Payal before looking away again, feeling uncomfortable.

 

“I just… I wanted to apologise.”

“For what bhai?”

“For taking the businesses back from Akash.”

“Why are you apologising for that? He wrongfully took Khushi’s business from her and you did what you needed to do to get it back for her. You didn’t do anything wrong. If anything, I should apologise on his behalf. I still don’t understand why he’d do that to Khushi. Why he’d do that to you!”

 

Arnav had thought about maybe telling Payal the truth. Telling her what he had heard Akash say to Khushi that day, but he decided against it. He knew Payal and Akash’s relationship was already under a lot of strain, he didn’t want to add to that.

 

“You don’t need to apologise for him. He’s a grown man and should’ve known better. You aren’t responsible for his actions.”

 

Shrugging, Payal knew Arnav had a point. She didn’t know he was planning anything like this and even if she did, she didn’t think that her views would have made a difference to him.

 

“How has he been doing?”

“He’s been okay. I thought he would have been angry or under a lot of strain, but he’s not. If anything he seems a lot more free. So I guess it doesn’t bother him that you’ve taken everything back. I think he had realised that he was out of his depth and whatever his plan was, he must have realised it wasn’t going to work.”

 

Nodding, Arnav looked at his watch and then got to his feet.

 

“Right, I’m going to be off to my room. I need to look through some files and make sure that everything’s in order again.”

“Are you going to be okay bhai, regarding…”

“I just need some time to process and accept what’s happened, but I think I’ll be okay.”

“If you’d like to talk, or if you need anything, I’ll be right here.”

“Thanks Payal. I appreciate it, I really do.”

 

Once Arnav left Payal’s room, she picked her phone up and called Khushi. But her Khushi’s phone was unreachable. Sighing, Payal decided to leave Khushi a message, asking her to call back as soon as she was able to.

 

*****

 

As the days slipped by, Rohan saw less and less of Khushi. He had thought that once she got over the fact that her and Arnav were over, she’d started accepting it better and that she would start trying to move forward with him. But if anything, he found she was going backwards, speaking to him less and less.

It was abundantly clear that Khushi was very much in love with Arnav and that she wasn’t ready to let him go. But Rohan was beginning to lose patience. He knew when he got into this relationship that he would be second fiddle, but he’d also through that Khushi would realise how much he cared for her and would start trying to move on. But it just wasn’t happening.

On a number of occasions, Rohan had seen Khushi in her room, wearing the ring that Arnav had given her and staring at it.

So far Rohan had managed to keep his cool, to not get mad at her, but it was getting increasingly harder as time went on. On one particular evening, Rohan decided that enough was enough.

Putting dinner together for them, he knew what he needed to do in order to make headway with the situation in hand.

 

*****

 

“This was some really good food, thank you.”

“It was my pleasure Khushi.”

 

Putting his fork down, Rohan realised that now was the time to say what he had been thinking.

 

“Khushi… I was thinking maybe… I think we should go back to England.”

 

Putting her own fork down, Khushi looked up at Rohan. At the back of her mind she knew that this was coming, it made sense why Rohan wanted to go back.

 

“Okay.”

 

Khushi’s response threw Rohan a bit. He hadn’t expected Khushi to agree so easily to his request. He had thought that she would argue and would want to stay here. But apparently not.

 

“I was going to book myself a ticket for London any way. I need to go and sort things at Khushiyan.”

“So when do you think we should leave?”

“Whenever you’re ready.”

 

Picking up her plate, Khushi made her way over to the sink to wash up. She didn’t really need to go to London to sort out her business. But she had realised that if she wanted to get over Arnav, then the more distance there was between them, the better it would be. Plus she was missing her parents a lot. She needed to be with them right now.

 

*****

 

A week had passed since Khushi and Rohan had decided that they were going to go back to London and now they were finally back. Between the time she had made the decision and now, Khushi had regretted her decision at least 50 times. She knew that the moment she saw her parents, they would grill her once more about all things related to Arnav and she wasn’t ready for that.

On the other hand, Arnav was completely shattered when he learnt that Khushi was leaving for London once more. He had tried to get in contact with her, but his efforts were futile and she had blocked his number.

He was struggling to cope, but didn’t seek reassurance in alcohol this time for the sake of his Nani. But he knew he needed to do something in order to help deal with the dull ache in his heart.

Payal had observed her brother in law and she couldn’t help but feel broken for him. His momentary happiness that had come to him was gone again. He walked around the house like someone haunted. She had tried to contact Khushi, but when she finally got through to her, she found out that Khushi was leaving again. Payal wasn’t impressed. She couldn’t understand why Khushi was being like this.

And then there was Akash. He wasn’t happy with how things had turned out, about the fact that he no longer owned the business, but at the same time there was a new found peace in him. He had come to terms with what had happened and he also realised that he was a mess. Akash knew that he had made a royal mess for his brother, and he knew that he needed to do something to make it up to him, but at the moment, his efforts were fruitless as Arnav didn’t want to have anything to do with him…

 

*****

 

“I really don’t understand what’s going on Khushi. It doesn’t make any sense to me.”

 

Rolling her eyes, Khushi put the kettle on before coming to sit down opposite her parents at their kitchen table.

She and Rohan had been back in the U.K. for just over 4 hours and she already knew coming back here was the worst idea. Last time she was here, she had gotten engaged to Rohan so suddenly, her parents hadn’t really had time to process things and so they couldn’t say much before she left. But this time, they had time to think about the matter and so were full of questions.

 

“Amma, Babuji, please. I really don’t want to talk about it.”

“You may not want to talk about it Khushi, but you have to. What on earth are you playing at? You didn’t explain to us whey you made this decision when you left and you still haven’t explained to us. And Rohan won’t say anything either.”

 

Wishing that she had invited Rohan back to her house, Khushi sighed as she got back up to make the teas.

Looking between each other, Shashi and Garima knew that there was something wrong. Getting to her feet, Garima walked over to where Khushi was and gestured for her husband to leave.

 

“Khushi, please, tell me. What happened. We know what happened between you and Arnav regarding the business, we understand that. But all this with Rohan. Khushi…”

 

“Amma please. If you know and understand what happened between me and Arnav, then why is it so hard to accept me and Rohan.”

“It’s hard to accept because your father and I both know how much you cared for Arnav. We know things went horribly wrong, but we don’t understand why you’d make such a big decision regarding Rohan.”

“You and papa wanted me to marry Rohan and I’m doing that! Why can’t you just…”

“No we can’t accept it Khushi! Because we know you don’t want to marry Rohan.”

“Well I do now.”

 

Turning away from her mother, Khushi knew that it was going to be hard to convince her parents that this was the right decision. Coming back towards her daughter, Garima placed a hand on Khushi’s shoulder.

 

“Dekho Khushi, I can kind of understand why you are doing this, but that doesn’t mean I agree. Rethink what you are doing, you’re making choices for what’s going to happen to the lives of three people, not just yourself.”

“Mama please. I’ve made my decision. And my decision is Rohan. The sooner everyone accepts this, the better.”

“We just want your happiness. I won’t say anything more on the topic, but what I will say is that, you need to think about this carefully and clearly with a fresh mind. Will you be happy with Rohan? Can you see yourself living your whole life with him? Maybe even starting a family with him one day. If your answer to any of these is no, then don’t go ahead with this.”

 

Garima placed a hand in her daughters shoulder and made her turn around.

 

“Please Khushi.”

“Okay. I will think about it.”

 

Leaving the kitchen, Garima walked away, hoping that her daughter would make the right decision. Khushi watched her mother walk away and couldn’t help but think about everything her mother had said. She had taken it all, and she had already thought about everything her mother had mentioned before. But she knew she couldn’t go back now. She couldn’t betray Rohan’s trust and go back to Arnav. She just couldn’t.

Jalebi ~ Part 32

 

When Arnav got home, it was safe to say that his aura had completely changed. If over the last couple of weeks he had been walking around with a dark cloud over his head, today he had a rainbow over his head.

The moment he walked in through the door and Anjali saw him, she knew things had changed for the better.

 

“Chote, where were you last night? I called you so many times.”

 

Rushing to his sister, he gave her a big hug, lifting her off her feet slightly.

 

“Chote! What are you doing, put me down!”

 

Hearing the commotion, Shyam came out to see what was going on.

 

“Arre what’s going on here?”

 

Letting go of his sister, Arnav went over to his brother in law and gave him the same treatment.

 

“Saale Saab! Have you go crazy! What are you doing? Put me down right this moment!”

 

Putting his brother in law down, Arnav sat down on the sofa and pat the seats next to him. Shyam and Anjali came over and sat down on either side of Arnav.

 

“Will you tell us what’s going on? And I still want to know where you were last night.”

“I was with Khushi.”

“What? You spent the night, with Khushi?”

 

Blushing slightly, Arnav nodded. Anjali gasped whereas Shyam slapped Arnav on the back in a laddish manner.

 

“Shyam ji! Don’t encourage him!”

“Di! Come on, you know it’s not the first time me and Khushi have spent the night together.”

“I do know, but that doesn’t mean I approve. You know how I feel about premarital sex.”

“Rani Sahiba, go easy on him. He thought he lost her, so to have her back…”

 

Anjali shook her head as she watched her husband pat her brother on the back. Boys, such idiots they were.

 

“Okay forget that. Did the plan work?”

“It did Di! It worked like a charm. What was Akash like when he got home last night?”

“He was very quiet, but he seemed at ease. He hasn’t looked that relaxed in a long time.”

“So he’s okay?”

“He’s alright. I don’t think he’s going to be a bother any more.”

 

Stretching his arms, Arnav placed his arms around his sister and brother in law, pulling them close to himself.

 

“I can’t believe everything is working out again. I thought…”

 

Anjali placed her hand on Arnav’s shoulder.

 

“The bad period of your life has passed Chote. Things are only going to get better now.”

“I hope so. I hope her fiancé isn’t too mad at her about last night…”

“Wait! Was her fiancé… Please tell me you didn’t sleep with her while he was in the house!”

“Of course not! Come on Di! What do you think of me. He’s been out of town for a while, but he… He kind of walked in on us this morning.”

 

Anjali groaned and put her face in her hand, while Shyam laughed.

 

“Were you both… At it?”

“Yep.”

“Oh god!”

 

Shyam was in absolute stitches with laughter and Arnav smirked. But Anjali was not impressed at all.

 

“In glad that you both find this so funny. Do you understand how much of an issue this could cause for Khushi? Her fiancé walked in on her, sleeping with another man! Do you understand how vulnerable you have left her?”

“It’s not ideal but I think it’ll be okay. I’ll call her in a bit to make sure that everything’s okay.”

 

Getting up, Arnav took his leave from his sister and brother in law and made his way over to his bedroom.

 

“I can’t believe Chote…”

“Go easy on him Rani Sahiba. He’s had a hard couple of weeks.”

“I know… I just hope he hasn’t made more of a mess of things.”

 

*****

 

“I need you to pick. Either you’re with me and you marry me and you forget about him. Or we end our relationship now and you can go back to him. It’s up to you. But bearing in mind, if you pick me, you can’t ever see him again.”

 

Stumped as to what Rohan had just said, Khushi felt herself lose her balance slightly, but she regained her strength. Why was she surprised that Rohan was asking this of her? She should have known this was coming.

Sitting down on the sofa, Khushi placed her hands on her face, trying to fight back the tears that threatened to fall. Rohan’s expression softened as he came and sat down beside Khushi, placing a hand on her shoulder.

Putting her arms around Rohan, Khushi held him close as she cried. She wanted Arnav, she still loved him but…

 

“I pick you.”

 

Wiping her eyes and breaking the hug, Khushi looked up into Rohan’s eyes.

 

“I pick you.”

 

*****

 

Rushing back into her bedroom, Khushi leaned against the door, letting her tears fall.

Was she making the right decision? She knew Arnav was innocent, that he hadn’t done anything to hurt her or to cause her to distrust him. But how could she go back to him now? Rohan had accepted her, despite knowing her past. Rohan was willing to marry her even after seeing her with Arnav today. How could she betray Rohan like that and go back to Arnav now? How could she do that to Rohan when he had accepted her time and time again despite being aware of everything she had done?

Much later the same day, Khushi had spent most of her day in her room, trying to get over the decision that she had made. She was still weighing it all up, making sure that she had made the right decision.

Just as she was getting ready to leave her room and to face Rohan, her phone began to ring. Walking over to her bedside table to pick it up, Khushi saw that it was Arnav calling. What was she meant to say to him?

Taking a deep breath, Khushi answered the phone.

 

“Hi…”

“Khushi, hey! Are you okay?”

“I’m… I’m alright.”

“He didn’t say anything to you did he?”

“No, not really. I mean he was angry, that was a given, but he was okay.”

“I’m sorry that we were in that position.”

“It’s okay. What’s happened has happened.”

 

There was a silence as they both tried to figure out what to say.

 

“Arnav…”

 

Arnav felt himself tense up. The way she said his name, it caused a shiver to run up his spine. He could tell something wasn’t quite right.

 

“What’s wrong? Khushi, tell me what happened.”

 

Trying to fight her tears back, Khushi composed herself before saying what she wanted to say.

 

“I… I can’t… I can’t speak to you any more, I’m sorry.”

 

Ending the call, Khushi threw her phone aside me collapsed down onto her bed. Everything was over.

Looking at his phone in disbelief, Arnav couldn’t believe what was happening. After what they had been through, after everything, she was still willing to let him go?
No, he couldn’t allow that. He couldn’t just let her go like that.

Calling her right back, Arnav was disappointed to find that his call went straight to voicemail.

He waited a few moments before calling right back. He called over and over again, but his calls went straight to voicemail every single time. Had she blocked his calls?

Anger coursed through Arnav’s body. How could she let him go like that over and over again. Did he mean so little to her? Maybe Rohan had said something?

Trying to call her a few more times, Arnav realised that it was futile. He needed to go over to see her, whether she and her fiancé liked it or not.

 

*****

 

“You can’t be here.”

“I need to see Khushi.”

 

Barging passed Rohan who had opened the door, Arnav walked into the living room, of Khushi’s apartment.

 

“She doesn’t want to see you.”

“My ass she doesn’t want to see me.”

“She doesn’t Arnav. She picked me over you. So how about you take the hint and you leave.”

“She’d never pick you over me. She loves me.”

“I hate to break it to you buddy, but she did pick me. So I suggest you leave quietly before I call the police.”

“I’m not leaving until I see her.”

 

Door opening, a puffy eyed Khushi walked out of her bedroom.

 

“What’s going on…”

 

As her eyes fell on Arnav, any thought that was going through her head fell away.

 

“Arnav…”

“I tried to tell him that you don’t want to see him, but he won’t listen.”

“Can you give us a few minutes please Rohan?”

 

Rohan looked high unimpressed at the request Khushi had just made, but he wasn’t about to argue. After all, she had picked him over Arnav. He didn’t have anything to lose.
Nodding, Rohan placed a hand on Khushi’s shoulder before making his way over to his room.

The moment the door shut behind him, Arnav was on Khushi.

 

“What the hell are you playing at Khushi?”

“I’m not…”

“This morning, everything was fine between us, you were all over me and now… You’re not taking my calls, Rohan is claiming you don’t want to see me. What the hell is going on?”

“I… I just realised that me and you, our relationship, it isn’t sustainable.”

“Not sustainable? What kind of nonsense is that?”

“Arnav please.”

“No! What kind of bullshit is this Khushi? You keep playing with me like I’m some kind of toy.”

“How…”

“Last night, everything that happened was initiated by you. You came onto me, making me think that we were… You wanted us to make love, YOU wanted that more than I did. And now you’re blocking me out again!”

“I made a mistake.”

“That’s the thing with you Khushi. When you want me, you’re all over me and then you ice me out! You did that to me in London. Spend the night with me and then the next morning you completely block me out and ask me to leave. I don’t hear from you for days and then when you’re ready to talk again, you’re all over me. You’ve done it so many times and… I’m being patient with you. I want to be with you but you… Do you even know what you want Khushi?”

 

Arnav hadn’t wanted to be so harsh, he didn’t want to bring the past up. But she was getting under his skin, driving him insane.

 

“Arnav…”

“I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I love you more than you can possibly imagine. Please… I know you love me too. Don’t make us both suffer like this.”

“I can’t…”

“You can!”

“Rohan…”

“Ugh! For gods sake Khushi, you don’t love him! You know in your heart you don’t really want to be with him.”

“But I do. I mean… I…”

“You what?”

 

Looking at the beautiful man stood before her, Khushi was struggling. But she knew she had to do what was required of her.

 

“I have picked Rohan. I’m marrying Rohan. I’m sorry.”

“Khushi…”

“Despite everything, Rohan has accepted me. I can’t go back on him now when he accepted me.”

“But what about me?”

“I’m sorry.”

“So that’s it? Everything we’ve been through, everything between us, it doesn’t matter?”

 

Looking down, Khushi fought back the tears that threatened to fall. Turning away from Arnav, she looked at nothing in particular and hoped he would leave soon.

 

“You’re really going to pick him over me?”

“Yes.”

“Do I really mean that little to you?”

 

Looking away, Khushi refused to comment. She couldn’t lie to him, nor could she tell him the truth.

 

“Then I guess we’re done here.”

 

He moved towards her, only to stop midway and turn back. Moving back over to the door, he looked at her one last time before slamming the door shut behind him.

 

Turning, Khushi had to stop herself from running after him, taking him into her arms and telling him that she picked him. But she knew she couldn’t do that. Moving back towards her bed, Khushi sat down. Why was everything such a mess? Why was it so hard? Why couldn’t they just be together?

Letting her tears flow, Khushi soon noticed a little box that was sat on her bedside table. Picking it up, she opened it up to find a beautiful ring nestled within. A flower shaped diamond ring, with multiple little diamonds making up the petals for the flower and going along the band, while a larger diamond sat at the centre of the flower. Was this…
Khushi looked between the beautiful ring in the box and the one that was already on her hand. The one from Rohan was a simple solitaire diamond ring. It was stunning but it wasn’t anything special or personal. Whereas this one from Arnav… It was evident he had really thought about her when he had brought it.

Slipping the ring from Rohan off of her finger, she placed the one Arnav had left on. It for perfectly and it looked beautiful. The ring was made her for in the same way that Arnav was made for her… But she couldn’t go back. She couldn’t accept Arnav and leave Rohan.

Slipping the ring back off, Khushi put it back in the box and snapped it shut. Opening up her drawer, Khushi pushed the ring to the back, along with all her memories and feelings for Arnav.